L. Mendel Rivers

Lucius Mendel Rivers (September 28, 1905 – December 28, 1970) was a Democratic U.S. Representative from South Carolina, representing the Charleston-based 1st congressional district for nearly 30 years. As chair of the House Armed Services Committee, Rivers developed a reputation for his unwavering support of American involvement in the Vietnam War. His reputation suffered as the American public at large turned against further escalation in the Vietnam War. In 1968, Rivers condemned American servicemen who attempted to stop the My Lai massacre, labeling them as "traitors". Rivers served in the House until his death in 1970.

L. Mendel Rivers
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from South Carolina's 1st district
In office
January 3, 1941  December 28, 1970
Preceded byClara G. McMillan
Succeeded byMendel Jackson Davis
Member of the
South Carolina House of Representatives
from Charleston County
In office
January 9, 1934 – June 6, 1936
Personal details
BornSeptember 28, 1905
Gumville, South Carolina, U.S.
DiedDecember 28, 1970(1970-12-28) (aged 65)
Birmingham, Alabama, U.S.
Political partyDemocratic
SpouseMargaret Middleton Rivers (1938–1970)
Children3, including L. Mendel Rivers, Jr.
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