Learn About Richard Lugar: Age, Birthdate, Zodiac Sign & More

Early Life

Richard Green Lugar was born on April 4, 1932, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was the son of Marcella (née Harvey) and Marvin Lugar, both of whom were of German descent. Lugar attended Shortridge High School in Indianapolis, where he excelled academically and was involved in various extracurricular activities.

Education and Early Career

After graduating from high school, Lugar went on to attend Denison University in Granville, Ohio. He later transferred to Pembroke College at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in politics, philosophy, and economics in 1954. Following his studies at Oxford, Lugar served in the United States Navy from 1957 to 1960.

Political Career

Lugar's political career began when he was elected to the Indianapolis Board of School Commissioners in 1964. He quickly gained a reputation for his commitment to education and public service, which led to his election as mayor of Indianapolis in 1967. During his time as mayor, Lugar focused on economic development and infrastructure improvements, laying the groundwork for his future political success.

• Lugar was elected to the United States Senate in 1976, representing Indiana as a Republican. During his time in the Senate, he became known for his expertise in foreign policy and national security issues.
• He served on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and was instrumental in efforts to reduce the threat of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons in the international community.
• As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations from 1985 to 1987 and again from 2003 to 2007, Lugar played a key role in shaping US foreign policy.

Personal Life

Richard Lugar married Charlene Smeltzer in 1956, and the couple had four sons together. Charlene was a devoted partner and supporter of Lugar throughout his political career. The Lugars were known for their commitment to family values and public service.

Recognition and Legacy

Throughout his career, Richard Lugar received numerous accolades for his contributions to public service and foreign policy. In 2013, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, recognizing his dedication to bipartisan cooperation and global security.

• Lugar's legacy also includes the Lugar Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting bipartisan governance and sustainable global security.
• He passed away on April 28, 2019, but his impact on American politics and international relations continues to be felt to this day.