38 Facts About Phyllis Schlafly

Early Life and Education

Phyllis Schlafly was a prominent conservative activist known for her staunch opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment. Her early life and education played a significant role in shaping her views and career.

1. Born on August 15, 1924, in St. Louis, Missouri, Phyllis Schlafly grew up during the Great Depression.
2. Her father, John Bruce Stewart, was an industrial equipment salesman who struggled to find work during the economic downturn.
3. Schlafly's mother, Odile Dodge, worked as a librarian and teacher to support the family.
4. She attended a Catholic girls' school, the Academy of the Sacred Heart, in St. Louis.
5. Schlafly graduated as valedictorian from Washington University in St. Louis in 1944 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
6. She earned a Master of Arts degree in government from Radcliffe College, a women's liberal arts college affiliated with Harvard University, in 1945.

Political Career

Phyllis Schlafly's political career spanned several decades, during which she became a leading figure in the conservative movement.

7. In 1952, Schlafly ran for Congress as a Republican in Illinois but lost to the Democratic incumbent.
8. She gained national attention with her 1964 book, "A Choice Not an Echo," which supported Barry Goldwater's presidential campaign.
9. Schlafly founded the Eagle Forum in 1972, a conservative interest group focused on social issues.
10. She was a vocal opponent of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), arguing that it would undermine traditional gender roles.
11. Schlafly's efforts contributed to the defeat of the ERA, which failed to gain the necessary support for ratification.
12. She served as a delegate to multiple Republican National Conventions, influencing the party's platform on various issues.

Personal Life

Phyllis Schlafly's personal life was marked by her strong family values and commitment to her beliefs.

13. She married Fred Schlafly, a successful lawyer, in 1949.
14. The couple had six children, whom Phyllis homeschooled for part of their education.
15. Schlafly was a devout Catholic and often cited her faith as a guiding principle in her activism.
16. Despite her busy career, she maintained a close-knit family life and was known for her hospitality.

Achievements and Recognition

Throughout her life, Phyllis Schlafly received numerous awards and accolades for her work in the conservative movement.

17. In 1992, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ronald Reagan.
18. Schlafly authored or co-authored 27 books on various political and social issues.
19. She was named one of the 100 most important women of the 20th century by Ladies' Home Journal in 1999.
20. Schlafly was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1998.

Controversies and Criticisms

Phyllis Schlafly's outspoken views and activism often sparked controversy and criticism from various quarters.

21. Her opposition to the ERA led to accusations of promoting gender inequality.
22. Schlafly's stance against same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights drew ire from progressive groups.
23. She faced criticism for her support of traditional gender roles, which some viewed as outdated and regressive.
24. Schlafly's involvement in the anti-communist movement of the 1950s and 1960s also attracted controversy.

Legacy

Phyllis Schlafly's legacy continues to influence conservative politics and social issues in the United States.

25. The Eagle Forum remains an active and influential conservative organization.
26. Schlafly's work against the ERA is often cited in discussions about gender equality and women's rights.
27. Her books and writings continue to be studied by scholars and political analysts.
28. Schlafly's life and career have been the subject of numerous biographies and documentaries.

Fun Facts

Phyllis Schlafly's life was full of interesting and lesser-known facts that add depth to her story.

29. She was an accomplished marksman and enjoyed shooting as a hobby.
30. Schlafly once debated feminist icon Betty Friedan on national television.
31. She was a prolific letter writer, often corresponding with political leaders and activists.
32. Schlafly's favorite color was red, which she often wore to public events.
33. She was a fan of classical music and played the piano.

Final Years

Phyllis Schlafly remained active in politics and public life until her death in 2016.

34. She continued to write and speak on political issues well into her 90s.
35. Schlafly endorsed Donald Trump for president in 2016, shortly before her death.
36. Her final book, "The Conservative Case for Trump," was published posthumously.
37. Schlafly passed away on September 5, 2016, at the age of 92.
38. She was buried in Calvary Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri, alongside her husband Fred.

Phyllis Schlafly's Lasting Impact

Phyllis Schlafly's influence on American politics and society remains significant. Her staunch opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and advocacy for traditional family values shaped conservative movements for decades. Schlafly's work as a lawyer, author, and activist showcased her dedication to her beliefs, even when facing fierce opposition.

Her legacy includes founding the Eagle Forum, a conservative interest group that continues her mission. Schlafly's efforts in mobilizing grassroots campaigns demonstrated the power of organized activism. While some view her as a polarizing figure, her impact on the political landscape is undeniable.

Understanding Schlafly's contributions provides insight into the complexities of American conservatism and the ongoing debates about gender roles and family values. Her life's work serves as a reminder of the enduring power of conviction and the ability of one individual to influence national discourse.