Corinne Claiborne Boggs

Democrat Representative of Louisiana's 2nd district

Congresses Served

House Terms

January 1, 1916 (97 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 2013

Death

Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and later as United States Ambassador to the Holy See.
First woman elected to Congress from Louisiana.
Permanent chairwoman of the 1976 Democratic National Convention, becoming the first woman to preside over a major party convention.
Elected to the House of Representatives in a special election following the death of her husband, who was also a Congressman.
Successfully re-elected multiple times, polling over 80% in contested races.
Played a significant role in the passage of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1974, adding provisions to prevent discrimination based on sex or marital status.
Inducted into the Louisiana Political Museum and Hall of Fame in 1994.
Appointed as U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See in 1997, serving until 2001.
Received several awards and honors, including the Laetare Medal from the University of Notre Dame and the Congressional Distinguished Service Award.
Active in community and political organizations, including membership in Sigma Gamma Rho sorority.
Recognized for her contributions to women’s rights and representation in politics.