Ann Richards

Date of Birth: September 1, 1933

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: September 13, 2006

Biography

Dorothy Ann Willis Richards was an American politician and educator who served as the 45th Governor of Texas from 1991 to 1995. Born in Lacy-Lakeview, Texas, she developed an early interest in public service, inspired by her parents’ involvement in community activities. Ann Richards attended Baylor University on a debate scholarship and later earned a teaching certificate from the University of Texas at Austin. Richards began her political career in the 1970s, initially working on local campaigns before being elected as the county commissioner for Travis County. Her breakthrough came in 1982 when she was elected Texas State Treasurer, becoming the first woman elected to statewide office in Texas in more than 50 years. She gained national attention for her keynote address at the 1988 Democratic National Convention, known for its wit and sharp critique of the Republican establishment. In 1990, she was elected Governor of Texas, where she focused on issues such as education reform, prison system overhaul, and increasing the representation of women and minorities in government. Despite her popularity, she was defeated in the 1994 gubernatorial election by George W. Bush. After leaving office, Richards remained active in public speaking, consulting, and campaigning for other Democratic candidates until her death in 2006.

5 Interesting Facts about Ann Richards

1. Ann Richards was a recovering alcoholic and openly discussed her struggles with addiction, becoming an advocate for substance abuse treatment and recovery.

2. She famously said of George H.W. Bush: “Poor George, he can’t help it. He was born with a silver foot in his mouth.”

3. Richards was known for her colorful personality and sharp wit, often using humor to make her political points.

4. During her tenure as governor, she increased the number of women and minorities in state government and appointed the first African American to the University of Texas Board of Regents.

5. Ann Richards was inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame in 1994.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ann Richards

1. “Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels.”

2. “Teaching was the hardest work I had ever done, and it remains the hardest work I have done to date.”

3. “I’ve always said that in politics, your enemies can’t hurt you, but your friends will kill you.”

4. “If you think taking care of yourself is selfish, change your mind. If you don’t, you’re simply ducking your responsibilities.”

5. “You can put lipstick and earrings on a hog and call it Monique, but it’s still a pig.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ann Richards’ highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million at the height of her career.

Children

Ann Richards had four children with her husband David Richards: Cecile Richards, who went on to become the president of Planned Parenthood; Dan Richards; Clark Richards; and Ellen Richards.