George McGovern

Date of Birth: July 19, 1922

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: October 21, 2012

Biography

George McGovern was an American politician, historian, and author who rose to prominence as the Democratic Party’s nominee for President in the 1972 election. Born in Avon, South Dakota, McGovern served as a U.S. Representative and U.S. Senator for South Dakota. A decorated World War II bomber pilot, he was known for his strong anti-war stance, particularly against the Vietnam War, and his advocacy for social justice and humanitarian causes. McGovern’s political career was marked by his dedication to food security and hunger relief, culminating in his appointment as the United Nations global ambassador on world hunger in 2001. Despite losing the 1972 presidential election to Richard Nixon in a landslide, McGovern remained an influential figure in American politics and public service until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about George McGovern

1. George McGovern flew 35 combat missions as a B-24 Liberator pilot during World War II and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service.

2. He earned a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern University and taught as a professor before entering politics.

3. McGovern was an early and vocal opponent of the Vietnam War, which became a central theme of his 1972 presidential campaign.

4. He authored several books on politics, history, and his personal experiences, including “Grassroots: The Autobiography of George McGovern.”

5. McGovern’s efforts in fighting hunger led to the creation of the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program, which provides meals to millions of children worldwide.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George McGovern

1. “The highest patriotism is not a blind acceptance of official policy, but a love of one’s country deep enough to call her to a higher plain.”

2. “I’m fed up to the ears with old men dreaming up wars for young men to die in.”

3. “Politics is an act of faith; you have to show some kind of confidence in the intellectual and moral capacity of the public.”

4. “You know, sometimes, when they say you’re ahead of your time, it’s just a polite way of saying you have a real bad sense of timing.”

5. “I will go to my grave believing that the United States of America is the greatest nation in the history of the world.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

George McGovern’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $2 million.

Children

George McGovern and his wife Eleanor Stegeberg had five children: Ann McGovern, Susan McGovern, Teresa McGovern, Steven McGovern, and Mary McGovern. Tragically, his daughter Teresa struggled with alcoholism and died in 1994.