Today we remember former First Lady Betty Ford on what would have been her 101st birthday.
Ford was born Elizabeth Ann Bloomer on April 8, 1918 in Chicago, Illinois. She was the third child and only daughter of William Stephenson Bloomer, Sr., a traveling salesman, and his wife, Hortense. In school, Ford studied to become a dancer.
During her husband’s presidency, Betty was highly active in social policy. A passionate supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment, Ford became known as one of the most politically active and candid First Ladies in history for her willingness to comment on hot button issues. She continued her social work long after leaving the White House. After experiencing her own struggles with addiction, Ford spoke openly about her own experiences to help others. In 1982, she co-founded the Betty Ford Center, a rehabilitation center for individuals undergoing treatment for addiction.
Explore Betty Ford’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re related to the former First Lady.
View Betty Ford’s Geni Profile
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Image: U.S. National Archives and Records Administration
Source: Geni.com
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