Mary McGrory
Mary McGrory: A Pioneering Journalist and Voice of Washington
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Mary McGrory was born on August 22, 1918, in Boston, Massachusetts. She is often referred to as the "Queen of the Press Corps" for her unparalleled insight into the world of politics.
Birth and Death Dates
August 22, 1918 - September 20, 2004
Mary McGrory's life spanned nearly nine decades, during which she witnessed and reported on some of the most pivotal moments in American history. Her passing on September 20, 2004, marked the end of an era for Washington journalism.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American journalist, columnist, and Pulitzer Prize winner
Mary McGrory's career as a journalist spanned over four decades, during which she worked tirelessly to shed light on the inner workings of politics. Her exceptional reporting and writing skills earned her numerous accolades, including a Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1975.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Boston, McGrory was exposed to politics from an early age by her father, who served as a Boston alderman. This exposure instilled in her a deep understanding of the importance of civic engagement and public service. McGrory attended the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, where she began to develop her writing skills.
Major Accomplishments
Pulitzer Prize for Commentary (1975)
First woman to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary
Member of the White House Press Corps (1940s-1960s)
Columnist for the Washington Star (1956-1981) and The Boston Globe (1994-2004)
Mary McGrory's accomplishments are a testament to her unwavering dedication to journalism. Her trailblazing work paved the way for future generations of women in politics and journalism.
Notable Works or Actions
Breakthrough reporting on the 1960 presidential campaign, which earned her recognition as one of the first female journalists to cover the White House
Author of "The Good Companions" (1949), a novel that explores themes of friendship and personal growth
* Regular contributor to The New York Times Op-Ed page
Mary McGrory's work continues to inspire journalists, politicians, and citizens alike. Her commitment to exposing truth and promoting transparency in politics has left an indelible mark on American journalism.
Impact and Legacy
Mary McGrory's impact on American journalism cannot be overstated. As one of the first women to cover the White House Press Corps, she shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future generations of female journalists. Her commitment to reporting on politics with depth and nuance has inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Mary McGrory's quotes are widely cited because they offer a unique perspective on the world of politics. Her sharp wit, keen insight, and dedication to truth-telling have made her one of the most respected voices in American journalism.
Quotes by Mary McGrory
Appliances have idiosyncracies, just like us. Unfortunately they have picked up our less attractive traits – they are proud, spiteful, and unforgiving.
I am hoping for better times. That’s how you know us hapless gardeners – by our dirty fingernails and our absurd, unquenchable optimism about next year.
If there is a secret to writing, I haven’t found it yet. All I know is you need to sit down, clear your mind, and hang in there.
You need the will to disarm the civilian population. If we can do it in Somalia, we can do it here.
Dogs, bless them, operate on the premise that human beings are fragile and require incessant applications of affection and reassurance. The random lick of a hand and the furry chin draped over the instep are calculated to let the shaky owner know that a friend is nearby.
And the propensity of weak and empty people to follow a leader into the darkness from which there is no return is still flourishing, as ever.
We have a new class in this country: the deserving rich. ... The deserving rich do nice things for each other. Comforting the unafflicted is something that comes naturally to them.
My friend Phil has a theory that the Lord, having made teenagers, felt constrained to make amends and so created the golden retriever.