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Don Fuqua
Don Fuqua 1961.jpg
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Florida
In office
January 3, 1963 – January 3, 1987
Preceded by District established
Succeeded by James W. Grant
Constituency 9th district (1963–1967)
2nd district (1967–1987)
Chair of the House Committee on Science and Technology
In office
January 3, 1979 – January 3, 1987
Preceded by Olin E. Teague
Succeeded by Robert A. Roe
Personal details
Born (1933-08-20) August 20, 1933 (age 92)
Jacksonville, Florida, U.S.
Political party Democratic
Education University of Florida

John Donald "Don" Fuqua, born on August 20, 1933, is a former American politician from Florida. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served as a representative for Florida in the United States House of Representatives from 1963 to 1987. This means he helped make laws for the entire country for many years.

Early Life and Education

Don Fuqua was born in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1933. His parents were John D and Lucille Fuqua. He also had two brothers. He went to the University of Florida in Gainesville from 1951 to 1953.

Military Service

After his first time at college, Fuqua served in the military. He was part of the United States Army Medical Corps. He served during and after the Korean War.

Returning to College

After his time in the military, he went back to the University of Florida. He graduated from the university in 1957.

Political Career

Before joining the U.S. Congress, Don Fuqua served in the Florida House of Representatives. He was a state representative from 1958 to 1962.

Serving in Congress

In 1963, he was elected to the United States House of Representatives. He represented Florida as a Democrat. He served in this important role for 24 years, until 1987.

Leading a Committee

During his time in Congress, Fuqua became the chairman of a special group. This group was called the House Science and Technology Committee. As chairman, he helped guide decisions about science, space, and technology for the country.

Important Votes

Don Fuqua was one of the members of Congress who voted on the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This was a very important law that aimed to end discrimination. He voted against this act.

Life After Congress

After leaving Congress in 1987, Don Fuqua continued to be involved in important work. He became the president of the Aerospace Industries Association. This organization works with companies that build aircraft and spacecraft.

Where He Lives Now

For most of his time in Congress, Don Fuqua lived on a farm. This farm was near Altha, Florida. He was also a dairy farmer. Today, he lives in Gainesville, Florida.

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