John Zuccotti

John Eugene Zuccotti (; June 23, 1937 – 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.

Zuccotti graduated in 1959 from Princeton University with a bachelor's degree. He earned a JD degree from Yale Law School in 1963.

Career 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. In mid-November 1975, he was named first deputy mayor of the city by Mayor Abraham D. Beame, serving until 1977 Zuccotti practiced law from 1977 until 1990.

Zuccotti served as assistant to the secretary of Housing and Urban Development and as chairman of the Real Estate Board of New York.