Ernest McFarland was born on August 9, 1894, in Cross Timbers, Oklahoma. He was raised in poverty, but his parents instilled in him the values of hard work and determination. McFarland attended the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a law degree in 1917. He then moved to Arizona to start his legal career.
McFarland quickly rose through the political ranks, serving as a prosecutor and judge before being elected to the U.S. Senate in 1940. During his time in Congress, McFarland was a champion for veterans, earning the nickname "Father of the G.I. Bill" for his work on the landmark legislation that provided education and housing benefits to World War II veterans.
After leaving the Senate in 1953, McFarland served as the Chief Justice of the Arizona Supreme Court in 1968, becoming the first former U.S. Senator to hold that position.
In addition to his time in the Senate, McFarland also served as the 10th Governor of Arizona from 1955 to 1959, where he continued his advocacy for education and social welfare programs.
McFarland married Edna McFarland, and together they had a son and a daughter. Despite his busy political career, McFarland always made time for his family, instilling in them the same values of hard work and service to others that had guided his own life.
Ernest McFarland passed away on June 8, 1984, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service and dedication to the people of Arizona. His contributions to veterans' rights and education continue to impact generations of Americans to this day.
McFarland's impact on Arizona politics can still be felt, as he paved the way for future leaders like Jan Brewer, who would go on to become the Governor of Arizona, following in his footsteps.