Trivia

Her daughter Cecile is president of Planned Parenthood Federation.

At the 1988 Democratic Convention she stole the show with her satirical shots at George Bush, who was running for president. "Poor George. He was born with a silver foot in his mouth," she said during her speech.

Governor of Texas (1991-1995).

Defeated in her bid for re-election by George W. Bush.

In 1980 she went public with her alcoholism, admitting that it had contributed to the end of her 30-year marriage. She credited Alcoholics Anonymous with helping her get sober.

Launched her political career in her 40s, after marrying and having four children. First won a seat on the Travis County Commission in Austin in 1976. Was Texas state treasurer in the 1980s.