George McGovern was an American politician who is best known for being a Democratic nominee for U.S. President in 1972, serving as a U.S. Senator from South Dakota, and his advocacy for food assistance programs. Born on July 19, 1922, in Avon, South Dakota, he became a prominent figure in U.S. politics.
Personal and Family Life
George McGovern was born to a Republican family during the Great Depression, and he grew up in a modest environment. He married Eleanor McGovern on October 31, 1943, with whom he had five children: Ann, Susan, Mary, Teresa, and Steven. McGovern faced personal challenges, including the tragic death of his daughter Teresa in 1994, who struggled with alcoholism. This led him to establish a non-profit organization focused on alcohol research in her memory.
Career and Politics
McGovern’s political journey began after he served as a bomber pilot in World War II. His passion for politics ignited after attending a speech by Adlai Stevenson in 1952. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1956 and later successfully ran for the U.S. Senate in 1962. Throughout his political career, he was known for his liberal views and efforts regarding domestic policies, especially food assistance. McGovern’s strong opposition to the Vietnam War defined much of his tenure and was a key aspect of his presidential campaign in 1972.
Death and Legacy
George McGovern passed away on October 21, 2012, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent advocate for social justice and progressive policies. He is remembered not only for his political career but also for his contributions to discussions on poverty and military engagement in U.S. history. His advocacy for food assistance programs has had a lasting impact on American social policies.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Our Nixon | 2013-01-23 | Self |
| Imminent Threat | 2015-09-04 | Self (archive footage) |
| Nixon by Nixon: In His Own Words | 2014-08-04 | Self (archive footage) |
| One Bright Shining Moment | 2005-09-16 | |
| Anthem | 1997-07-25 | Self |
| Marsha Hunt’s Sweet Adversity | 2015-09-13 | Self |
| FAT: A Documentary | 2019-07-19 | Self (Archival footage) / Politician |
| 1971 | 2014-04-18 | Self (archive footage) |
| The Martha Mitchell Effect | 2022-01-20 | Self (archive footage) |
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Fox News Sunday | 1996-04-28 | |
| Newhart | 1982-10-02 | |
| Saturday Night Live | 1975-10-11 | Self – Host |
| The Dick Cavett Show | 1968-06-06 | Self – Guest |