George McGovern

Date of Birth: July 19, 1922

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: October 21, 2012

Biography

George Stanley McGovern was an American politician, historian, and author who served as a U.S. Representative, U.S. Senator, and the Democratic Party nominee in the 1972 presidential election. Born in Avon, South Dakota, McGovern was a decorated World War II bomber pilot who completed 35 missions over Nazi Germany. After the war, he earned a Ph.D. in history and government and became a professor before entering politics. McGovern was a leading figure in the Democratic Party’s progressive wing and was known for his outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War. His 1972 presidential campaign, although unsuccessful, significantly influenced the party’s platform and the direction of U.S. liberal politics.

5 Interesting Facts about George McGovern

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

2. He authored multiple books, including “Grassroots: The Autobiography of George McGovern” and “What It Means to Be a Democrat.”

3. McGovern’s 1972 presidential campaign was notable for its grassroots organization and strong anti-Vietnam War stance.

4. He served as the United Nations Global Ambassador on World Hunger from 2001 to 2008.

5. McGovern was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, in 2000.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George McGovern

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

2. “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.”

3. “The longer the title, the less important the job.”

4. “No man should advocate a course in private that he’s ashamed to admit in public.”

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

Highest Net Worth Achieved

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

Children

George McGovern had five children: Ann, Susan, Teresa, Stephen, and Mary. His daughter Teresa McGovern tragically passed away in 1994 due to complications related to alcoholism.