By Jesse Neo, PhDJun 10th, 2024
Meet Barbara Bush, the lovely and stylish ex-First Lady of the United States! She was born on June 8, 1925, and was a very influential woman in her time.
She did very well in her career and was worth around $25 million. But what is the really interesting part about her story?
We took the time to research and find out more about one of America's most loved people. Join us as we explore how Barbara's achievements and bravery led her to a life filled with happiness, sadness, and important events - all leading to her becoming one of history's most powerful women.
How Old is Barbara Bush? Barbara Bush Age and Birthday Info
Barbara Bush is currently 97 years old. She was born on June 8, 1925 in Flushing, New York. Barbara Bush is the daughter of an important textile executive and grew up in a family that was involved in politics.
As a rising socialite with a strong background, she got involved in charity projects worldwide. Her age doesn't hold her back from supporting causes she cares about; at almost 100 years old, Barbara is just as enthusiastic and vocal in raising awareness for important social issues.
What is Barbara Bush's Zodiac Sign
Barbara Bush, a socialite lady, was born on June 8, 1925. So, her zodiac sign is Gemini, known for their energetic and lively nature.
Being a Gemini, Barbara Bush has a natural talent for charming people with her social grace and enthusiasm, making her a highly desired individual in society. Her flexibility helps her stay ahead of any changes or trends in social events and fashion.
She's curious and can learn new things fast, making her great at keeping conversations fun. This helps her stand out at parties and events as a socialite. Being a Gemini is part of why Barbara Bush is so good at charming high society.
Barbara Bush Nationality and Ethnicity
Barbara Bush was a socialite from the United States. She had a mix of English, German, Welsh, Irish, Scottish, French, and Moravian backgrounds.
Because of her special cultural background, she valued including everyone when she was alive as a famous public figure. She showed the diversity of America by being open-minded towards all cultures and bringing people from different backgrounds together through her understanding and acceptance.
Barbara Bush was able to overcome any challenges related to identity or privilege due to her friendly nature. This helped her gain respect and admiration from people of all walks of life.
Early Life and Education
Barbara Bush, born as Barbara Pierce on June 8, 1925 in New York City, grew up in Rye, a coastal suburb. She had two older siblings, Martha and James, and a younger brother, Scott. Her father, known for leading McCall Corporation, which published popular women's magazines, earned recognition. Barbara went to different schools for her education, including Milton Public School, Rye Country Day School, and Ashley Hall in Charleston, South Carolina. She was good at sports like tennis, swimming, and cycling. Barbara later studied at Smith College.
Marriage and Children
When Pierce was 16 years old and on vacation in Greenwich, Connecticut, he met George H. W. Bush, a student at Phillips Academy, at the Round Hill Country Club. About a year and a half later, they decided to get engaged right before Bush joined the Navy during World War II. In early 1945, the couple got married. They moved frequently around the United States, living in different states like Maryland and Virginia before settling in Texas. During the first 13 years of their marriage, the Bushes had six children: George W., Pauline, Jeb, Neil, Marvin, and Dorothy.
Years in Texas
The Bushes had some important early years in Texas. George worked in the oil business and helped start the Zapata Corporation. In 1963, George became chairman of the Harris County Republican Party. The following year, he tried to win a Senate seat but was not successful. By then, the Bushes had become known in national politics.
First Years in Washington
In 1966, George became a congressman from Texas. He held other government roles over the years, often with his wife by his side during campaigns. Barbara, as a congressman's wife, worked on charity projects and joined Republican women's groups in Washington. When her husband became a UN ambassador in the early 70s, she began building connections with well-known diplomats.
China Years and Depression
The Bushes moved to China in 1974 when George became the head of the US Liaison Office there. They enjoyed biking and exploring different cities and areas. In 1977, George returned to the US to lead the CIA. Barbara felt unhappy and unaccomplished, leading to depression. Rather than seeking help, she began giving talks about her time in China.
Second Lady of the United States
In 1980, George was the vice president running with Republican candidate Ronald Reagan, who won. Barbara became the Second Lady of the United States from 1981 to 1989. She got involved in literacy because her son Neil had dyslexia, and she worked with different literacy groups. Barbara wrote a kids' book called "C. Fred's Story" and kept speaking at events.
First Lady of the United States
When her husband became President in 1989, Barbara became the First Lady of the United States. She focused on promoting family literacy, working with literacy groups and leading reading clubs. Barbara also started the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy. She also supported LGBTQ rights, AIDS awareness, and abortion access. Barbara was involved in the White House Historical Association and revamped the White House Preservation Fund into the White House Endowment Trust.
How much money did Barbara Bush have?
Barbara Bush was an American who helped others and used to be the First Lady of the United States. When she passed away in 2018, she had about $25 million. Barbara Bush was most well-known for being married to the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush, who was in office from 1989 to 1993. Her kids include former President George W. Bush and former Florida governor Jeb Bush. It's interesting to note that she and Abigail Adams are the only two women to be both a president's wife and a mother to another president.
Post-FLOTUS
When the Bushes left the White House in 1993, they went back to Texas. Soon after, their son George W. became the governor of Texas. Barbara supported him during his presidential campaign in 1999. In 2016, she reluctantly campaigned for her son Jeb's presidential run.
Illness and Death
In 1988, Barbara found out she had Graves' disease, which is when the body attacks itself. She also got COPD and congestive heart failure from smoking a lot. Barbara Bush died at her home in Houston in the spring of 2018 when she was 92. Her husband, who also had Graves' disease, passed away seven months later in late 2018 at the age of 94.
Conclusion
In short, Barbara Bush was not just rich, but also very generous and caring. Her wealth of $25 million showed how successful she was, from her early days to her important position as the First Lady of the United States. By focusing on promoting literacy and giving to charity, Barbara has left a legacy that goes beyond money and still helps many people today.
