Ann Richards Biography

Fast Facts

• Studied at Baylor University on a debate scholarship
• After earning her bachelor's degree from Baylor, she would later attend the University of Texas to secure her teaching certificate
• Passed away following a short battle with esophageal cancer in 2006 at the age of 73
• While working as a middle school social studies and history teacher in the mid-50s, she would begin to campaign for local city officials
• After being defeated by George W․ Bush in 1994, she would go on to work in the private sector for various law firms and public relations agencies, while continuing to campaign for various democrats
• Following her work as a campaigner for almost two decades, she would first run for office in 1976, eventually taking over the Travis County Commissioners' Court from a three-term incumbent
• Named governor of Texas in 1990 after defeating Clayton Williams 49% to 47%
• Would be elected the State Treasurer of Texas in 1982, becoming the first female elected to the position in over 50 years
• Gained national acclaim after giving a rousing, yet critical speech at the 1988 Democratic National Convention
• Helped create the Texas Lottery in the early '90s shortly after being elected and later ceremoniously bought the first ticket ever sold on May 29, 1992