Martha Keys facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Martha Keys
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Kansas's 2nd district |
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| In office January 3, 1975 – January 3, 1979 |
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| Preceded by | William R. Roy |
| Succeeded by | James E. Jeffries |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Martha Elizabeth Ludwig
August 10, 1930 Hutchinson, Kansas, U.S. |
| Died | December 19, 2024 (aged 94) |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouses | |
| Children | 4 |
| Relatives | Gary Hart (brother-in-law) |
| Education | University of Missouri–Kansas City (BA) |
Martha Elizabeth Keys, born Martha Ludwig, was an important American politician. She was born on August 10, 1930, and passed away on December 19, 2024. Martha Keys represented the state of Kansas in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1975 to 1979. This is a part of the United States Congress, where laws are made for the country.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Martha Keys was born in Hutchinson, Kansas. She went to Paseo High School in Kansas City, Missouri, and finished in 1945. After high school, she attended Olivet College for a year. Later, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Missouri–Kansas City in 1951. This education helped prepare her for a life of public service.
Political Career and Public Service
Martha Keys was very active in politics. She worked as a campaigner for the Democratic Party in 1964 and 1968. In 1972, she led the presidential campaign for George McGovern in Kansas.
When Congressman Bill Roy decided to retire, Martha Keys was encouraged to run for his seat. Her brother-in-law, Senator Gary Hart from Colorado, helped convince her. She was elected as a Democrat to the United States House of Representatives in 1974. She represented the area around Manhattan, Kansas.
Martha Keys served two terms in Congress. During her time in the House of Representatives, her first marriage ended. She later married another member of Congress, Andrew Jacobs Jr., but their marriage also ended. She continued to work hard for her constituents. In 1978, she ran for reelection but was not successful.
After leaving Congress, Martha Keys continued her public service. From 1979 to 1980, she was a special adviser to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. She then became an assistant secretary of education from 1980 to 1981. In 1982, she was chosen to join the National Governing Board of Common Cause, an organization that works to make government more open. She also worked as a consultant and directed the Center for a New Democracy for a time.
Family Life and Legacy
Martha Keys was married to Sam Keys, who was a university professor and later a dean at Kansas State University. Her sister, Lee, was married to former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate Gary Hart. Martha Keys passed away on December 19, 2024, at the age of 94. She is remembered for her dedication to public service and her work in the U.S. House of Representatives.
See also
- Women in the United States House of Representatives
