Date of Birth: June 10, 1953
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Biography
John Reid Edwards, commonly known as John Edwards, is an American politician and attorney who served as a U.S. Senator from North Carolina. Born on June 10, 1953, in Seneca, South Carolina, Edwards rose to national prominence as the Democratic nominee for Vice President in the 2004 election alongside John Kerry. Prior to his political career, Edwards was a successful trial lawyer known for his work in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. Edwards grew up in Robbins, North Carolina, and attended North Carolina State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in textile technology. He later attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning his law degree. Edwards began his legal career in Nashville, Tennessee, before returning to North Carolina to establish his own practice. Throughout his legal career, Edwards gained a reputation for winning large settlements and verdicts for his clients, which helped him accumulate significant wealth. In 1998, he entered politics and won a seat in the U.S. Senate, where he served until 2005. In 2008, Edwards made a bid for the Democratic presidential nomination but ultimately suspended his campaign. Despite his political success, Edwards’ career has been marred by personal and legal controversies, including an extramarital affair and subsequent legal battles. Nevertheless, he remains a notable figure in American politics.
5 Interesting Facts about John Edwards
1. John Edwards was the first member of his family to attend college.
2. He won a landmark case in 1985, securing a $3.7 million settlement for a child who suffered brain damage during birth.
3. Edwards served as the Director of the Center on Poverty, Work, and Opportunity at the University of North Carolina after his Senate term ended.
4. He was a candidate for the Democratic nomination for President in both the 2004 and 2008 elections.
5. Edwards was indicted in 2011 on charges of using campaign funds to cover up his affair but was acquitted on one count and the jury deadlocked on the others.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Edwards
1. “There are two Americas – one for the wealthy, and one for everybody else.”
2. “I think that my family and I have learned a lot about what is important in life.”
3. “The greatest tragedy in life is not to fail, but to succeed at things that don’t matter.”
4. “Our job is to build hope for America’s working families, hope for the middle class, and hope for those struggling to join the middle class.”
5. “We have a moral responsibility to leave this planet in better shape for future generations.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At his peak, John Edwards’ net worth was estimated to be around $55 million.
Children
John Edwards has five children: 1. Wade Edwards (1979–1996) – His eldest son, who tragically died in a car accident. 2. Cate Edwards (born 1982) – An attorney and author. 3. Emma Claire Edwards (born 1998). 4. Jack Edwards (born 2000). 5. Frances Quinn Hunter (born 2008) – From his extramarital affair with Rielle Hunter.
Relevant Links
2. [John Edwards – Senate Career on Senate.gov](https://www.senate.gov/senators/Edwards.htm
5. [John Edwards on NPR – Podcast Interview](https://www.npr.org/people/4535640/john-edwards