Martha Mitchell, a flamboyant American socialite and political figure, gained fame and notoriety for her outspoken statements during the Watergate scandal. In this blog post, we delve into her life, from her early days in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to her controversial moments in the political spotlight.
Martha Mitchell’s Early Life & Education:
Born on September 2, 1918, Martha Mitchell grew up in a wealthy family, attending Pine Bluff High School and later Agnes Scott College. Active in clubs and societies, she graduated in 1940 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Martha Mitchell’s Personal Life:
Martha married Clyde Jennings in 1946, and they moved to Washington, D.C. After their divorce in 1957, she married John N. Mitchell in 1957, becoming a prominent socialite in New York City. Despite hosting lavish parties and befriending celebrities, her life took a turn during the Watergate scandal in 1972.
Controversies:
Martha Mitchell’s outspoken nature led to several controversies. She accused President Nixon and his aides of corruption during Watergate, claimed she was kidnapped to silence her, and criticized the Nixons on various issues, including the Vietnam War.
Martha Mitchell’s Career:
While not having a formal career, Martha was a columnist for the New York Post, sharing her opinions on fashion, travel, and current affairs. She made frequent appearances on radio and TV, known for her controversial statements.
Awards:
Martha received informal recognition, including being named one of the Ten Most Admired Women in America in 1970 and receiving an honorary doctorate from Agnes Scott College in 1971. She was posthumously inducted into the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame in 2016.
Death:
Martha Mitchell passed away on May 31, 1976, at 58, after battling multiple myeloma. Diagnosed in 1974, she underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Martha Mitchell’s Legacy:
Martha Mitchell’s legacy is marked by her controversial role in the Watergate scandal. Despite the controversies, she left an indelible mark on American history and was remembered for her charm, wit, and honesty.
Martha Mitchell’s Net Worth:
At the time of her death, Martha Mitchell’s net worth was estimated at $3 million. She lived a luxurious lifestyle, owning a $500,000 penthouse apartment in New York City.
FAQs:
- What was Martha Mitchell’s nickname?
- Martha Mitchell was dubbed “the Mouth of the South” by the media.
- What controversies was Martha Mitchell involved in?
- Martha accused President Nixon and his aides of corruption during the Watergate scandal and claimed to have inside information proving their guilt.
- How did Martha Mitchell pass away?
- Martha Mitchell succumbed to multiple myeloma, a type of bone cancer, on May 31, 1976, in New York City.
- What awards did Martha Mitchell receive?
- While not receiving formal awards, Martha was named one of the Ten Most Admired Women in America in 1970 and received an honorary doctorate from Agnes Scott College in 1971. She was posthumously inducted into the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame in 2016.