Mark White facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mark Wells White, Jr.,
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Governor Mark White addressing a joint session of the Texas Legislature on January 14, 1987, six days before leaving office.
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| 43rd Governor of Texas | |
| In office January 18, 1983 – January 20, 1987 |
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| Lieutenant | William P. Hobby Jr. |
| Preceded by | Bill Clements |
| Succeeded by | Bill Clements |
| 46th Attorney General of Texas | |
| In office January 19, 1979 – January 18, 1983 |
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| Governor | Bill Clements |
| Preceded by | John Hill |
| Succeeded by | Jim Mattox |
| 74th Secretary of State of Texas | |
| In office January 19, 1973 – October 27, 1977 |
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| Governor | Dolph Briscoe |
| Preceded by | V. Larry Teaver, Jr. |
| Succeeded by | George Strake, Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Mark Wells White
March 17, 1940 Longview, Texas, U.S. |
| Died | August 5, 2017 (aged 77) Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Linda Gale Thompson |
| Children | 3 (two sons, one daughter) |
| Residences | Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Alma mater | Baylor University |
| Profession | Lawyer and politician |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | Texas National Guard |
| Unit | 36th Infantry Division |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
Mark Wells White, Jr., (born March 17, 1940 – died August 5, 2017) was an American lawyer and politician. He served as the 43rd Governor of Texas from 1983 to 1987. Before becoming governor, he held other important roles in Texas government.
Contents
Mark White: A Leader for Texas
Mark White was a dedicated public servant. He worked hard for the people of Texas. He held several key positions. These roles helped him understand the needs of the state.
Early Life and Education
Mark Wells White was born in Longview, Texas on March 17, 1940. He grew up in Texas. He later attended Baylor University. There, he studied law and became a lawyer. This education prepared him for a career in public service.
Serving Texas as Secretary of State
White began his career in state government. He became the 74th Secretary of State of Texas. He served in this role from 1973 to 1977. The Secretary of State is a top official. They handle many important state records. They also oversee elections.
Texas Attorney General
After his time as Secretary of State, White took on a new challenge. He was elected the 46th Attorney General of Texas. He held this office from 1979 to 1983. The Attorney General is the state's chief legal officer. They represent the state in legal matters. They also work to protect the rights of Texans.
Governor of Texas
In 1982, Mark White ran for governor. He won the election. He became the 43rd Governor of Texas. His term began on January 18, 1983. He served one term, ending on January 20, 1987. As governor, he made decisions that affected all Texans. He focused on improving education and public safety.
Key Actions as Governor
During his time as governor, Mark White worked on several important issues. He helped pass a major education reform bill. This bill aimed to improve schools across Texas. It included changes to how teachers were paid. It also set new standards for students. He also focused on economic development. He wanted to bring more jobs to Texas.
Later Life
After serving as governor, Mark White continued to be active. He remained a respected figure in Texas politics. He passed away on August 5, 2017. He was 77 years old. He died at his home in Houston, Texas.
