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William E. Wiener Oral History Library Audio Selections Abzug, Bella (1920-1998) American Jewish congresswoman
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Abzug, Bella (1920-1998) American Jewish congresswoman
“This woman’s place is in the House- the House of Representatives,” claimed Bella Abzug in her successful 1970 campaign. As a congresswoman, she represented her Upper West Side Manhattan district, but her passionate advocacy of the Equal Rights Amendment, civil rights, and outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War, made her a national figure. She served three successive terms from 1971-1977.
[chronological order]

Early childhood desire to become a lawyer, strong interest in social justice. (May 20, 1983)
Length: 56 sec.
Outrage at discovery that Harvard Law School did not admit women, decision to attend Columbia Law School, law school experience. (May 20, 1983)
Length: 2 min. 19 sec.
Childhood interest in Zionism, giving pro-Zionist speeches on the subway when she was eleven, Jewish education, saying Kaddish for her father, despite the disapproval of many synagogue congregants. (May 20, 1983)
Length: 3 min. 49 sec.
First campaign for Congress, early experience in the House of Representatives, legislative work and accomplishments. (May 20, 1983)
Length: 1 min. 53 sec.