Margaret Chase Smith was born on December 14, 1897, in Skowhegan, Maine, to a family of English and French-Canadian heritage. She was one of six siblings and grew up in a small town in Maine.
After graduating from high school, Smith began her career as a teacher and also worked as a high school basketball coach. It was during this time that she developed a passion for public service and politics. In the 1930s, she became a member of the Maine Republican State Committee, marking the beginning of her political career.
Smith's political career took off in the late 1940s when she was elected as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Maine's District Two. She served in this role until the early 1970s. During her time in the House, Smith gained a reputation as a principled and independent lawmaker.
In 1948, Smith was elected to the United States Senate, becoming the first woman to serve in both houses of Congress. She continued to serve as a Senator from Maine until the early 1970s, advocating for issues such as civil rights, nuclear disarmament, and women's rights.
In 1964, Smith made history by becoming the first woman to run for the Republican primary nomination in the United States presidential election. Although she did not win the nomination, her candidacy was groundbreaking and paved the way for future female political candidates.
Smith married fellow politician Clyde Smith and the couple had no children. Despite her busy political career, Smith remained close to her family and often visited her siblings in Maine.
Throughout her career, Margaret Chase Smith was known for her integrity, independence, and dedication to public service. She was a trailblazer for women in politics and inspired generations of female leaders. Smith's legacy continues to be celebrated today, with numerous awards and honors named in her honor.