Geraldine Ferraro was born on August 26, 1935, in Newburgh, New York. She grew up in a working-class family and was the daughter of Italian immigrants. Ferraro attended Marymount College and later earned a law degree from Fordham University School of Law in 1960.
After graduating from law school, Ferraro worked as a public school teacher but quickly became dissatisfied with her career choice. She decided to pursue a career in law and worked as a prosecutor in Queens County, New York. She later went on to work in private practice before eventually entering politics.
Ferraro's political career began in 1978 when she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York's 9th district. She served in this role from 1979 to 1985 and became known for her work on women's rights and social issues. In 1984, Ferraro made history when she became the first female vice presidential candidate representing a major American political party, running alongside Walter Mondale.
Although the ticket ultimately lost in a landslide to Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, Ferraro's candidacy paved the way for future female politicians and inspired women across the country.
After her time in Congress, Ferraro continued to serve her country as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights from 1993 to 1996. In this role, she worked tirelessly to promote human rights and social justice on the global stage.
Ferraro married businessman and realtor John Zaccaro in July 1960, and the couple had three children together. Despite the challenges of balancing a successful career in politics with her family life, Ferraro remained dedicated to her husband and children.
Throughout her career, Geraldine Ferraro broke barriers and shattered glass ceilings for women in politics. Her pioneering spirit and dedication to public service continue to inspire generations of women to enter the political arena and fight for equality and justice.
Today, Ferraro's legacy lives on in the countless women who have followed in her footsteps and who continue to push boundaries and challenge the status quo in pursuit of a better and more equitable society.