35 Facts About Laura Bush

Early Life and Education

Laura Bush, born Laura Lane Welch, has a fascinating background that shaped her into the influential figure she is today. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about her early years and education.

1. Laura Bush was born on November 4, 1946, in Midland, Texas. Her parents were Harold Welch, a home builder, and Jenna Louise Hawkins Welch, a bookkeeper.

2. She attended James Bowie Elementary School and San Jacinto Junior High School in Midland. Her early education laid the foundation for her lifelong love of learning.

3. In 1963, Laura was involved in a tragic car accident that resulted in the death of her close friend, Michael Dutton Douglas. This event had a profound impact on her life.

4. Laura graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Midland in 1964. She was known for her quiet demeanor and academic diligence.

5. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Southern Methodist University in 1968. Her passion for teaching and literacy began to take shape during her college years.

6. Laura later pursued a Master of Library Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin, which she completed in 1973. This advanced education fueled her dedication to promoting literacy.

Marriage and Family Life

Laura Bush's marriage to George W. Bush and her role as a mother have been central to her life. Here are some key facts about her family life.

7. Laura met George W. Bush at a backyard barbecue in Midland, Texas, in 1977. They were introduced by mutual friends.

8. The couple married just three months after their first meeting, on November 5, 1977. Their whirlwind romance quickly turned into a lifelong partnership.

9. Laura and George have twin daughters, Barbara and Jenna, born on November 25, 1981. The twins have followed in their mother's footsteps, engaging in various philanthropic activities.

10. The Bush family has a beloved Scottish Terrier named Miss Beazley, who was a gift from President Bush to Laura on her birthday in 2004.

11. Laura is known for her strong family values and has often spoken about the importance of family support and unity.

First Lady of Texas

Before becoming the First Lady of the United States, Laura Bush served as the First Lady of Texas. Her initiatives during this time laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.

12. Laura became the First Lady of Texas in 1995 when George W. Bush was elected Governor of Texas. She used her platform to advocate for education and literacy.

13. She launched the Texas Book Festival in 1996, which has since become one of the largest and most prestigious literary festivals in the country.

14. Laura also focused on health care issues, particularly those affecting women and children. She worked to improve access to health care services across Texas.

15. Her efforts in Texas earned her widespread recognition and respect, setting the stage for her future role on the national stage.

First Lady of the United States

Laura Bush's tenure as the First Lady of the United States from 2001 to 2009 was marked by numerous initiatives and accomplishments. Here are some notable facts about her time in the White House.

16. Laura Bush was the first First Lady to give the weekly presidential radio address. She used this platform to discuss the plight of women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.

17. She launched the "Ready to Read, Ready to Learn" initiative, which aimed to improve early childhood education and promote literacy.

18. Laura was a strong advocate for the No Child Left Behind Act, which sought to improve educational outcomes for all American students.

19. She established the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries in 2002. The foundation provides grants to school libraries to update their book collections.

20. Laura traveled to more than 75 countries during her time as First Lady, promoting education, women's rights, and health care initiatives worldwide.

21. She played a key role in the establishment of the National Book Festival in Washington, D.C., which celebrates the joy of reading and literacy.

22. Laura was a vocal supporter of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which aimed to combat HIV/AIDS globally.

23. She hosted the first-ever White House Conference on Global Literacy in 2006, bringing together leaders from around the world to discuss strategies for improving literacy rates.

Post-White House Activities

After leaving the White House, Laura Bush has continued to be an active and influential figure. Here are some facts about her post-White House activities.

24. Laura and George W. Bush founded the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, Texas, which includes a library, museum, and policy institute.

25. She has authored several books, including her memoir "Spoken from the Heart," which provides an intimate look at her life and experiences.

26. Laura continues to advocate for education and literacy through the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries.

27. She is involved in various philanthropic activities, including the Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon initiative, which aims to reduce deaths from cervical and breast cancer in developing countries.

28. Laura serves on the board of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, reflecting her commitment to preserving America's cultural heritage.

29. She has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to education, literacy, and public service.

30. Laura and George W. Bush have remained active in supporting veterans and military families through the Bush Institute's Military Service Initiative.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Beyond her public life, Laura Bush has a range of personal interests and hobbies that provide a glimpse into her personality. Here are some fun facts about her personal life.

31. Laura is an avid reader and has a personal library with thousands of books. Her love of reading has been a constant throughout her life.

32. She enjoys gardening and has often spoken about the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature.

33. Laura is a talented cook and has shared some of her favorite recipes in various publications.

34. She has a passion for art and has taken up painting as a hobby, inspired by her husband's interest in the same.

35. Laura is known for her love of animals, particularly dogs. She has often been seen with her pets and has supported various animal welfare causes.

Laura Bush: A Life of Impact

Laura Bush's life is a testament to dedication, compassion, and resilience. From her early days as a teacher and librarian to her role as First Lady, she has consistently championed education, literacy, and women's rights. Her efforts in promoting global health initiatives and advocating for human rights have left a lasting mark. Laura's personal experiences, including the tragic car accident in her youth and her battle with infertility, have shaped her empathetic approach to public service. Her memoir, "Spoken from the Heart," offers a deep dive into her journey, revealing the strength and grace that define her. Laura Bush's legacy is not just about her time in the White House but also about her ongoing commitment to making the world a better place. Her story inspires many, reminding us of the power of kindness, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to one's values.