Charles Rangel Height, Weight, Religion, Net Worth, Age, Biography

About (Profile/Biography):
Charles Bernard "Charlie" Rangel stands as one of America's most influential African-American politicians, representing New York's Harlem district in Congress for an extraordinary 46 years. Born in 1930 to a Puerto Rican father and African-American mother, this Korean War hero transformed from a high school dropout into a powerful legislative force. Charlie earned Bronze Star and Purple Heart medals before using the GI Bill to attend law school. His remarkable journey took him from Harlem's streets to chairing the influential House Ways and Means Committee, where he shaped tax policy and championed anti-poverty programs. Rangel's career bridged the civil rights movement to modern politics, making him a pivotal figure who helped establish the Congressional Black Caucus while facing both triumph and controversy throughout his distinguished service until retiring in 2017.
Early Life and Background of Charles Rangel
• Charlie was born in Harlem to Ralph Rangel, a Puerto Rican father, and Blanche Wharton, an African-American mother from Virginia.
• He dropped out of high school at 16 and worked various jobs before being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
• Rangel earned his high school diploma through the GED program while serving in the military overseas.
Military Service and Heroism for Charles Rangel
• Charlie served as a staff sergeant in the 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean War from 1948 to 1952.
• He received a Bronze Star and Purple Heart after being wounded while leading 40 men to safety during a Chinese assault.
• Rangel later credited his military experience with teaching him discipline and leadership skills that shaped his political career.
Education and Legal Career of Charles Rangel
• Charlie used the GI Bill to attend New York University, graduating in 1957, followed by St. John's University School of Law in 1960.
• He worked as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Southern District of New York before entering private practice.
• Rangel served as legal counsel for various civil rights organizations and community groups in Harlem during the 1960s.
Charles Rangel’s Entry into Politics
• Charlie began his political career in 1966 when he was elected to the New York State Assembly representing Harlem.
• He challenged the legendary Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in the 1970 Democratic primary for Congress and won decisively.
• Rangel became one of the founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus in 1971 alongside 12 other African-American representatives.
Congressional Leadership of Charles Rangel
• Charlie served as Chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee from 2007 to 2010, controlling tax and trade policy.
• He was instrumental in creating the Earned Income Tax Credit, which became one of America's largest anti-poverty programs.
• Rangel helped establish numerous tax incentive zones in urban areas, bringing billions in investment to underserved communities.
Legislative Achievements of Charles Rangel
• Charlie authored the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, which has created over 3 million affordable housing units nationwide.
• He played a key role in passing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) despite strong opposition from labor unions.
• Rangel consistently opposed military interventions and was a vocal critic of the Iraq War and Vietnam War policies.
Civil Rights Activism of Charles Rangel
• Charlie participated in the 1963 March on Washington and worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. on various initiatives.
• He fought against South African apartheid and helped pass economic sanctions that pressured the regime to change.
• Rangel established the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program to increase diversity in the U.S. Foreign Service.
Awards and Recognition received by Charles Rangel
• Charlie received the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart for his distinguished military service during the Korean War.
• He was inducted into the New York State Veterans' Hall of Fame in 2013 for his military and public service.
• Rangel received honorary doctorate degrees from over 20 universities, including Howard University and City College of New York.
Lesser-Known Facts about Charles Rangel
• Charlie once worked as an elevator operator at the Garment District before pursuing his education and legal career.
• He was married to Alma Carter Rangel for over 50 years until her death in 2021, and they had two children together.
• Rangel spoke fluent Spanish due to his Puerto Rican heritage and often advocated for Latino communities in Congress.
Legacy and Retirement of Charles Rangel
• Charlie retired from Congress in 2017 after 46 years of service, making him one of the longest-serving members in history.
• He established the Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service at City College to train future public servants.
• Rangel continues to mentor young politicians and remains active in Democratic Party politics and community organizations in Harlem.
Major Controversies around Charles Rangel
• Charlie faced a House Ethics Committee investigation from 2008-2010 for financial improprieties and tax violations.
• He was formally censured by the House of Representatives in December 2010 for violating House rules and tax laws.
• Rangel failed to report rental income from his Dominican Republic villa and improperly used rent-stabilized apartments in New York.