William F. Buckley, Jr. facts for kids

Quick facts for kids William Frank Buckley, Jr.
William F. Buckley, Jr. in 1985

William Frank Buckley, Jr. (born November 24, 1925 – died February 27, 2008) was an American writer and speaker. He was known for his strong conservative ideas. He started a very important political magazine called National Review in 1955. This magazine greatly influenced the conservative movement in America. Buckley also supported famous politicians like Barry Goldwater and Ronald Reagan.

Early Life and Education

William F. Buckley, Jr. was born on November 24, 1925, in New York City. His family had Irish roots. He went to school at Beaumont College. In 1950, he married Patricia Buckley. They had one son named Christopher Buckley.

Career Highlights

Buckley was famous for hosting a television show called Firing Line. He hosted 1,429 episodes of this show from 1966 to 1999. On the show, he was known for his unique way of speaking and his very large vocabulary. He also wrote a newspaper column that was published all over the country. Besides his political writings, he also wrote many exciting spy novels.

Later Years and Legacy

William F. Buckley, Jr. passed away at his home in Stamford, Connecticut, on February 27, 2008. He was found at his desk in his study. At the time, he had been dealing with health issues like emphysema and diabetes. His death was caused by emphysema. Buckley left behind a lasting impact on American politics and journalism.

Images for kids

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  Buckley (right) and L. Brent Bozell Jr. promoting their book McCarthy and His Enemies, 1954

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  Buckley with President Richard Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and Frank Shakespeare in 1970

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  Buckley with President Ronald Reagan at Reagan's birthday celebration, 1986

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  Buckley shaking hands with President George W. Bush on October 6, 2005