Who Is John Connally? Age, Biography, and Wiki
John Connally was born on February 27, 1917, in a small town in Texas, making him an influential figure in American politics throughout the mid-20th century. He served as the Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969 and also held the position of U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Richard Nixon. Connally was a central character during pivotal moments in American history, including his presence during the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Connally passed away on June 15, 1993, but his legacy continues to shape political discourse today.
| Occupation | Republicans |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 27, 1917 |
| Age | 76 Years |
| Birth Place | Floresville, Texas, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 15 June, 1993 |
| Died Place | Houston, Texas, U.S. |
Popularity
John Connally's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While physical statistics are rarely emphasized in political biographies, it’s known that Connally had a commanding presence. His height was approximately 6 feet (183 cm), and he was described as having a robust build, which complemented his larger-than-life personality in both political and social settings.
On November 22, 1963, Connally was seriously wounded while riding in President Kennedy's car at Dealey Plaza in Dallas when the president was assassinated. Connally, riding in the middle jump seat of the president's limousine in front of the president, recalled hearing the first shot, which he immediately recognized as a rifle shot.
He said that he immediately feared an assassination attempt and turned to his right to look back to see the president. He looked over his right shoulder but did not catch the president out of the corner of his eye, so he said he began to turn back to look to his left, when he felt a forceful impact to his back.
It is likely that, had his head not turned, the bullet which struck his back would have hit his heart instead of his lungs, instantly killing him.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
John Connally was married to Nellie Connally, who was a significant partner in his political career. Together, they had four children: John B. Connally III, Ann Connally, and two others. The couple's relationship was marked by mutual support throughout his political endeavors. Although he was a public figure, his family life remained largely private.
He was one of seven children born to Lela (née Wright) and John Bowden Connally, a dairy and tenant farmer. His six siblings included four brothers: Golfrey, Merrill, Wayne and Stanford, and sisters Carmen and Blanche.
According to Ronnie Dugger, Connally's family had "had no money, no home, and no furniture." Connally's parents grew even poorer because of the Great Depression, and when speaking about his poverty, Connally often recalled that he had to study by kerosene light.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, John Connally had an estimated net worth of around $10 million. His wealth stemmed from his extensive career in politics, consulting, and investments in oil ventures. His financial status is a testament to his significant influence and success in both political and business realms.
By Spring of 1967, Connally announced that he would not seek a fourth term because of his failing health: he suffered from stomach ulcer. Reevaluating the governorship of John Connally, Rita Lynne Colbert concludes: "His accomplishments as Governor of Texas for six years appear quite modest.
Some new industry was attracted to the state, a tourist development agency was set up, a commission appointed to study higher education problems. Texas minorities have spoken out violently against his stand opposing President Johnson's civil rights bill.
And in his own party, the liberal Democrats were very angry because Connally had frequently snubbed them. The one area he seemed to excel in was the growth of better education in Texas.
Connally said he wanted to be known as 'the education Governor,' and he will be, because spending for higher education rose 150 percent and for secondary education 100 percent. The expenditures for mental-health rose 300 percent. Along with the increase in education was the increase of taxes during Connally's term as Governor.
The Texas budget rose from $1.3 billion to $2.5 billion a year, almost doubling. Connally argued that increases in service to Texas outweighed the tax rise, and that, per capita, taxes rose only 16.4 percent while the national average rose by 21.9 percent.
Even though the taxes rose, the business taxes did not rise nearly as much as per capita income of the people and Connally was not shy about mentioning this to big business, The New York Times tells that Connally admitted (at a meeting in San Antonio in 1966 that was supposed to have been secret), that his administration had gone out of its way to
keep taxes off business, although 'every poll shows business taxes are the most popular with the public.' Yarborough, Connally's long time enemy, calls Connally 'the worst, the most reactionary Governor in Texas history.'"
Career, Business, and Investments
Connally's career was marked by his pivotal role as Texas Governor, where he focused on various reforms and economic initiatives. Post-gubernatorial career, he worked as a consultant and lobbyist, further expanding his influence in business. Notably, he invested in the oil industry, which was booming in Texas during his lifetime, contributing significantly to his wealth. Connally also became involved in various philanthropic activities, reinforcing his legacy beyond politics.
John Bowden Connally Jr. (February 27, 1917 – June 15, 1993) was an American politician who served as the 39th governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969 and as the 61st United States secretary of the treasury from 1971 to 1972. He began his career as a Democrat and later became a Republican in 1973.
Social Network
Connally was well-connected both politically and socially, known for his relationships with several prominent figures in American politics, including Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon. His connections extended into business and social circles, making him a key figure in 20th-century America.
According to a 1961 poll, only 1% of Texas voters were willing to back Connally, which forced him to make ground rapidly. Connally appeared conservative, but did often highlight his position in the Kennedy Administration in attempt to appeal to Hispanic and Afro-American voters.
Connally refused to debate Yarborough, and resorted to attacking him in subtle ways instead, attacking him as a candidate of Americans for Democratic Action, which "was like equating him with the Communist party" in a Southern state like Texas.
Education
John Connally attended the University of Texas, where he earned a law degree. His educational background laid the groundwork for his career in politics and law, equipping him with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of governance and public service.
Connally was governor during a time of great expansion of higher education in Texas. He signed into law the creation of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
He appointed regents who backed the entry of women into previously all-male Texas A&M University in College Station, having been prompted to take such action by State Senator William T. "Bill" Moore of Bryan, who in 1953 had first proposed the admission of women to the institution.
