John Eugene Zuccotti ([dzukˈkɔtti]; June 23, 1937[1] – November 19, 2015) was an American businessman active in real estate and development in New York City. He is best known as the namesake of Zuccotti Park.
Early life and education
Zuccotti was born on June 23, 1937, in Greenwich Village, New York City, to Angelo and Gemma Zuccotti. He had one brother, Andrew. His father was an Italian immigrant to the United States who was known in New York City's high society as the longtime maitre d' of El Morocco, a nightclub frequented by the rich and famous.[2]
Zuccotti served in a number of governmental and civic positions including member of the New York City Planning Commission starting in 1971, of which he became chairman in 1973.[3] In mid-November 1975, he was named first deputy mayor of the city by Mayor Abraham D. Beame, serving until 1977[4] Zuccotti practiced law from 1977 until 1990.[5]
As a businessman, Zuccotti was active in the development of New York City, as a partner in a number of real estate firms including Olympia & York, and law firms such as Brown & Wood, Tufo + Zuccotti, and Weil, Gotshal & Manges, and as the U.S. chairman of Brookfield Properties.
Politically, Zuccotti was active in both Democratic and Republican politics on both the local and national level, serving at various times on the National Republican Congressional Committee and Joe Biden's presidential campaign.
