25 Facts About William F. Buckley Jr.

Early Life and Education

William F. Buckley Jr. was a towering figure in American conservatism. His early life and education played a significant role in shaping his future.

1. Born on November 24, 1925, in New York City, Buckley was the sixth of ten children.
2. His father, William Frank Buckley Sr., was a Texas-born oil developer and lawyer.
3. Buckley spent much of his childhood in Mexico, where he became fluent in Spanish.
4. He attended the prestigious Millbrook School in New York, where he honed his debating skills.
5. Buckley went on to Yale University, where he studied political science, economics, and history.
6. At Yale, he was a member of the secret society Skull and Bones and served as chairman of the Yale Daily News.

Military Service

Buckley's time in the military was brief but impactful, providing him with experiences that would influence his later work.

7. During World War II, Buckley served in the U.S. Army as an infantryman.
8. He was stationed in Texas and later in Georgia, where he trained soldiers in the use of the M1 Garand rifle.
9. After the war, Buckley was honorably discharged with the rank of second lieutenant.

Career in Journalism

Buckley's career in journalism began with a bang and continued to influence American media for decades.

10. In 1951, he published his first book, "God and Man at Yale," which criticized the university for its secularism and liberalism.
11. Buckley founded the conservative magazine National Review in 1955, which became a leading voice for American conservatism.
12. He served as the editor-in-chief of National Review for over three decades, shaping the magazine's editorial direction.
13. Buckley wrote a syndicated newspaper column, "On the Right," which appeared in over 300 newspapers nationwide.
14. He hosted the television show "Firing Line" for 33 years, making it the longest-running public affairs program with a single host in television history.

Political Influence

Buckley's influence extended beyond journalism into the political arena, where he played a key role in shaping modern conservatism.

15. He was a staunch supporter of Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential campaign, helping to bring conservative ideas to the forefront of American politics.
16. Buckley ran for mayor of New York City in 1965 as the candidate of the Conservative Party, though he did not win.
17. He played a pivotal role in the founding of Young Americans for Freedom, a conservative youth organization.
18. Buckley was instrumental in the rise of Ronald Reagan, supporting his gubernatorial and presidential campaigns.

Literary Contributions

Buckley was not just a journalist and political commentator; he was also a prolific author.

19. He wrote over 50 books, including novels, non-fiction works, and collections of essays.
20. His Blackford Oakes spy novels were particularly popular, blending espionage with conservative political themes.
21. Buckley's writing style was known for its wit, erudition, and extensive vocabulary.
22. He received numerous awards for his literary work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1991.

Personal Life and Legacy

Buckley's personal life and legacy continue to be remembered and celebrated by many.

23. He married Patricia Taylor in 1950, and they had one son, Christopher Buckley, who also became a noted author.
24. Buckley was an accomplished sailor, often spending time on his yacht, "The Panic."
25. He passed away on February 27, 2008, but his influence on American conservatism and journalism remains strong.

Buckley's Lasting Legacy

William F. Buckley Jr. left a mark on American conservatism. His sharp wit, eloquence, and unwavering principles reshaped political discourse. Founding National Review in 1955, he provided a platform for conservative voices, influencing generations of thinkers and policymakers. Buckley's debates, especially with figures like Gore Vidal, showcased his intellectual prowess and ability to engage opponents with respect and rigor.

Beyond politics, Buckley's love for sailing and adventure revealed a multifaceted personality. His novels and TV show, Firing Line, further cemented his status as a cultural icon. Buckley's legacy isn't just in his writings or speeches but in the way he inspired others to think critically and passionately about their beliefs.

His contributions continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of ideas and the importance of civil discourse. Buckley's life remains a testament to the enduring impact of principled leadership.