Harrison Arlington Williams Jr. was born on October 10, 1919 in Plainfield, New Jersey. He grew up in a middle-class family and attended local schools in Plainfield. Williams was a bright student, excelling in academics and athletics. He developed an interest in politics at a young age, inspired by his father's involvement in local community affairs.
Williams attended Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., where he studied political science. However, his education was interrupted by the outbreak of World War II. In 1941, Williams left college to enlist in the U.S. Naval Reserve, serving with distinction during the war. After the war, he returned to Georgetown and completed his degree.
After graduating from Georgetown, Williams entered politics and ran for office in New Jersey. In 1953, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served two terms before being elected to the Senate in 1959. Throughout his career, Williams was a staunch advocate for social justice and civil rights, pushing for legislation to improve the lives of working-class Americans.
In 1981, Williams was caught up in a bribery scandal known as the Abscam sting operation. He was convicted of accepting bribes from undercover FBI agents posing as Arab businessmen. As a result, Williams was forced to resign from the Senate in disgrace. Despite his legal troubles, Williams remained defiant and maintained his innocence until his death.
After leaving office, Williams retired to his home in Denville, New Jersey. He lived a quiet life, away from the public eye, but continued to be haunted by the scandal that had tarnished his reputation. Williams passed away at St. Clare's Hospital in Denville in 2001, surrounded by his family.
Despite the controversy that marred his later years, Harrison A. Williams left behind a legacy of public service and advocacy for the marginalized and disadvantaged. His contributions to civil rights, social welfare, and environmental protection remain an important part of his enduring legacy.