John McCain
Biography of John McCain
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: John Sidney McCain III
Common Aliases: John McCain, Senator McCain
Birth and Death Dates
Born: August 29, 1936
Died: August 25, 2018
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): Politician, Naval Officer, Author
Early Life and Background
John Sidney McCain III was born on August 29, 1936, at Coco Solo Naval Air Station in the Panama Canal Zone, a U.S. territory at the time. He was the son of John S. McCain Jr. and Roberta McCain. His family had a distinguished military background; both his father and grandfather were four-star admirals in the United States Navy. This lineage instilled in McCain a deep sense of duty and patriotism from an early age.
McCain attended Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where he developed a reputation for being a rebellious yet charismatic student. Following in his family's footsteps, he enrolled at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Although he graduated in 1958, McCain was known more for his defiant spirit than his academic achievements, finishing fifth from the bottom of his class.
Major Accomplishments
John McCain's life was marked by a series of significant accomplishments, both in military service and politics. After graduating from the Naval Academy, he became a naval aviator, flying attack aircraft from carriers. During the Vietnam War, McCain's plane was shot down over Hanoi in 1967, leading to his capture and imprisonment as a prisoner of war (POW) for over five years. Despite enduring severe torture and solitary confinement, McCain refused early release, adhering to the military code of "first in, first out."
Upon returning to the United States, McCain continued his service in the Navy until retiring in 1981. He then transitioned to a career in politics, being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Arizona in 1982. In 1986, he won a seat in the U.S. Senate, where he served for over three decades. McCain was known for his maverick approach, often crossing party lines to support legislation he believed in, such as campaign finance reform and immigration policy.
Notable Works or Actions
John McCain's political career was marked by several notable actions and legislative efforts. He was a key figure in the passage of the McCain-Feingold Act, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at reforming campaign finance by limiting the influence of money in politics. McCain also played a significant role in the Senate Armed Services Committee, advocating for a strong national defense and supporting military interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In addition to his legislative work, McCain ran for President of the United States twice. His 2000 campaign was notable for its "Straight Talk Express" bus tours, where he engaged directly with voters and the press. Although he lost the Republican nomination to George W. Bush, McCain's candidacy left a lasting impression. In 2008, he secured the Republican nomination but was defeated by Barack Obama in the general election.
Impact and Legacy
John McCain's impact on American politics and society is profound. He was widely respected for his integrity, courage, and willingness to stand up for his beliefs, even when it meant opposing his own party. McCain's military service and experience as a POW gave him a unique perspective on issues of war and peace, which he brought to his work in the Senate.
His legacy is also marked by his efforts to bridge partisan divides and his commitment to principles over party loyalty. McCain's final years in the Senate were characterized by his vocal opposition to policies he viewed as detrimental to American values, including his dramatic vote against the repeal of the Affordable Care Act in 2017.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
John McCain is widely quoted and remembered for his eloquence, forthrightness, and the moral clarity he brought to public discourse. His speeches and writings often reflected his deep commitment to American ideals and his belief in the power of democracy. McCain's ability to articulate complex issues in a straightforward manner made his words resonate with people across the political spectrum.
His famous concession speech in 2008, where he graciously accepted defeat and called for unity, is often cited as a model of political civility. McCain's legacy as a statesman who prioritized country over party continues to inspire and challenge future generations of leaders. His life and career serve as a testament to the enduring values of service, sacrifice, and integrity.
Quotes by John McCain
John McCain's insights on:
We need to listen to the views and respect the collective will of our democratic allies. When we believe that international action is necessary, whether military, economic, or diplomatic, we will try to persuade our friends that we are right. But we, in return, must also be willing to be persuaded by them.
Americans and Europeans share a common goal - to build an enduring peace based on freedom.
The United States expects a lot of its partners and allies, including joint patrolling, significant contributions to armed conflicts, and a strict adherence to human rights, among other things.
As chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I am confronted every day with the security concerns and threats to our own nation's safety, as well as threats to the rest of the world.
On Putin's order, corrupt apparatchiks and crony oligarchs rob Russians of their nation's wealth and resources.
On Putin's order, Russian security services try to destabilize NATO allies the U.S. has sworn to defend.
What is most troubling about Mr. Putin's aggression in Crimea is that it reflects a growing disregard for America's credibility in the world. That has emboldened other aggressive actors - from Chinese nationalists to Al Qaeda terrorists and Iranian theocrats.
The French repulsed wave after wave of frontal attacks at Dien Bien Phu. The 1968 Tet offensive against the U.S. was a military disaster that effectively destroyed the Viet Cong. But Giap persisted and prevailed.