The first female Mayor of Chicago, serving from 1979 to 1983, known for her efforts to revitalize the city's economy and infrastructure. She was a pioneering figure in Chicago politics.
Jane Byrne was a pioneering American politician who made history as the first female mayor of Chicago, serving from 1979 to 1983. This remarkable woman shattered the glass ceiling, beating the city's political machine and becoming a beacon of hope for women in politics.
Jane Margaret Burke was born on May 24, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, to Katherine Marie Burke and William Patrick Burke. She grew up on the city's north side, graduating from Saint Scholastica High School and later earning a bachelor's degree in chemistry and biology from Barat College in 1955.
Byrne's entry into politics was sparked by her involvement in John F. Kennedy's presidential campaign in 1960. This led to her meeting with then-Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley, who appointed her to several positions, including a job in a city antipoverty program in 1964.
Byrne's rise to prominence began when she was appointed head of the City of Chicago's consumer affairs department in 1968. She later served as a delegate to the 1972 Democratic National Convention and chairperson of the DNC resolutions committee in 1973. In 1969, she became the commissioner of consumer sales, making her the only female in Mayor Daley's cabinet.
In 1979, Byrne made history by defeating incumbent Mayor Michael Bilandic in the Democratic primary, becoming the first female mayor of Chicago and the first woman to be elected mayor of a major city in the United States.
Byrne married twice, first to William Byrne, with whom she had one daughter, and later to Jay McMullen. After losing her bid for reelection in 1983, Byrne remained active in politics, serving as a delegate to the 1992 and 1996 Democratic National Conventions.
Jane Byrne passed away on November 14, 2014, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazing politician who paved the way for women in politics.
Born in 1902
The 48th Mayor of Chicago, a dominant figure in American politics, known for his strong leadership and machine-style politics that shaped the city's development. He played a crucial role in the 1968 Democratic National Convention.
Born in 1922
The first African American Mayor of Chicago, serving from 1983 until his death in 1987, known for his progressive policies and efforts to reform the city's government.
84 Years Old
The 54th Mayor of Chicago, a powerful figure who transformed the city's infrastructure, economy, and education system, leaving a lasting legacy in American politics.
66 Years Old
The 55th Mayor of Chicago, a prominent figure in American politics, is known for his influential role in the Obama administration and his efforts to revitalize Chicago's economy and infrastructure. He's a strong leader with a reputation for getting things done.
98 Years Old
Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee from 1981 to 1994, known for his role in shaping US tax policy and healthcare reform.
