Barry Goldwater

Date of Birth: January 2, 1909

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: May 29, 1998

Biography

Barry Morris Goldwater was a prominent American politician and five-term U.S. Senator from Arizona. Born on January 2, 1909, he is often credited with sparking the resurgence of American conservatism in the 1960s. Goldwater was the Republican Party’s nominee for President of the United States in the 1964 election but lost to incumbent Democrat Lyndon B. Johnson. Goldwater’s political philosophy emphasized small government, fiscal conservatism, and a strong stance against communism. Aside from his political career, Goldwater was also an accomplished amateur photographer and author. He served as a Major General in the Air Force Reserves and was active in the civil rights movement, supporting the desegregation of the military.

5 Interesting Facts about Barry Goldwater

1. Barry Goldwater was an avid amateur radio operator, holding the call sign K7UGA.

2. He was instrumental in the desegregation of the Arizona National Guard.

3. Goldwater was one of the first members of Congress to advocate for the decriminalization of homosexuality.

4. He was a co-founder of the Arizona Historical Society.

5. Goldwater was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1986 by President Ronald Reagan.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Barry Goldwater

1. “Extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice. Moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue.”

2. “I would remind you that extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice. And let me remind you also that moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue.”

3. “Those who seek absolute power, even though they seek it to do what they regard as good, are simply demanding the right to enforce their own version of heaven on earth.”

4. “The income tax created more criminals than any other single act of government.”

5. “You don’t have to be straight to be in the military; you just have to be able to shoot straight.”