About the Author
James W. Clarke was a University Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of Arizona, a former Fulbright Scholar, and an occasional consultant to the U.S. Secret Service. He is the author of numerous articles published in leading academic journals and five nonfiction books on violent crime.
One of his books, American Assassins: The Darker Side of Politics is a New York Times “Notable Book of the Year”, and another, Last Rampage: The Escape of Gary Tison, an Arizona Daily Star “Best Books of the Southwest” selection, is described in best-selling author, Bill James,’ recent survey of the true crime literature as one of the six best books in the genre. Now a major motion picture starring Robert Patrick and Heather Graham! The paperback edition of his most recent book, Defining Danger: American Assassins and the New Domestic Terrorists closes with an epilogue on Jared Loughner, Gabrielle Giffords’ would-be assassin. |
In the NewsIt is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James W. Clarke, who left us on February 18, 2026, at the age of 89.
Born in Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, in 1937, James was a man defined by a lifelong commitment to "speaking truth to power." At the age of 18, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marines—a foundation of service that informed a storied career in academia and public safety. As a University Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of Arizona and a former Fulbright Scholar, James was a titan in his field. His expertise was sought at the highest levels, including serving as a consultant to the U.S. Secret Service. His legacy lives on through his five nonfiction books and numerous academic articles. His seminal work, American Assassins: The Darker Side of Politics, was recognized as a New York Times “Notable Book of the Year.” His gripping account of the Tison gang, Last Rampage, was hailed by Bill James as one of the six best books in true crime history and later adapted into a major motion picture. Even in his most recent work, Defining Danger, James continued to provide vital analysis on the evolving nature of domestic threats. Beyond the accolades, James’s life was rooted in a deep, quiet faith. He taught his family and those around him to live the spirit of Jesus through action and humility. This was most evident in his dedicated volunteer work at the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen, where he found great fulfillment in serving his neighbors and giving back to the Tucson community he loved. His voice, intellect, and unwavering integrity will be profoundly missed by his colleagues, students, and readers. He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife Jeanne, his children Julie and Michael, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Details regarding services will be shared as they become available. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in James’s memory to the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen, a cause very close to his heart: https://casamariatucson.org/donate/ |