Where's My Roy Cohn?

In 1951, Roy Cohn begins his legal career as a 24-year-old legal assistant in the office of United States Attorney General J. Howard McGrath. He joins a prosecution team involved in the controversial trial of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, reflecting the intense political climate of the time.

During the Rosenberg trial, Cohn and his team face scrutiny over the actions of judge Irving Kaufman. This period serves as a critical commentary on the judicial system and the measures taken against alleged communists.

Displaying remarkable intellect, Roy Cohn graduates from Columbia Law School at just 20 years old. His academic success enables him to join the New York State Bar Association by the age of 21, marking the beginning of his prominent legal career.

Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, societal norms severely stigmatize homosexuality, especially for those in positions of power. During the Lavender Scare, Cohn plays a pivotal role in the persecution of individuals based on their sexual orientation, navigating a dangerous political landscape.

Cohn reportedly develops a 'romantic crush' on David Schine, adding a layer of complexity to his public persona. This relationship raises questions about Cohn's own identity in a time when homosexuality was heavily repressed.

The infamous Army-McCarthy hearings become a pivotal moment in Cohn's career. During these hearings, opposing counsel Joseph N. Welch confronts Cohn with public and homophobic criticisms, revealing the broader societal challenges faced by Cohn.

As a formidable lawyer, Cohn establishes a powerful presence in New York's legal community. His influential connections lead him to become the personal attorney for notable figures, including real estate mogul Donald Trump.

Cohn serves as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Second Red Scare, reinforcing his role in the anti-communist movement of the time. This period solidifies his reputation as a fearsome litigator willing to use aggressive tactics.

The tensions between Cohn's ambition and his true self create an ongoing internal conflict. His struggles with identity and societal norms provide a deeper understanding of his motivations and actions throughout his career.

Cohn's complex legacy is shaped by his contributions to significant legal battles and his controversial political maneuvers. His life serves as a lens through which the struggles of personal identity and ambition within a tumultuous political landscape can be viewed.