High School
Worksheets
The Journey of a Stateswoman
Carol Moseley Braun
Reading Comprehension for August 16
What does it take to become a State Representative, a U.S. Senator, a U.S. Ambassador, and a Democratic presidential candidate? Well, if you ask Carol Moseley Braun, she would probably tell you hard work and confidence in your abilities. These were the values that Edna and Joseph Moseley instilled in their four children. Carol Moseley Braun was born on August 16, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois. She is the oldest of four children. Her mother, a medical technician, and her father, a police officer, believed in the value of education. They also encouraged their children to pursue their goals and dreams. During the 1950s and 1960s, America was still a segregated society. Although this social structure presented a huge challenge, Moseley Braun did not let this deter her from pursuing her goals.
Her journey towards achievement began as a student in the Chicago public schools. Moseley Braun was described as a self-motivated student. During her sophomore year in high school, she got her first paying job. While attending college, Moseley Braun worked in a post office and a grocery store. The money she earned helped to pay for college. In 1969, she received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois. A law degree soon followed in 1972 from the University of Chicago.
Moseley Braun started her public service career in 1973 when she became an assistant United States attorney. While working in the U.S. Attorney's Office, she tried civil, appellate, and national cases. Moseley Braun also focused her energy on cases related to housing, health policy, and environmental law. In recognition of her work in these areas, she received the Attorney General's Special Achievement Award. This would be the first of many public service awards that she would receive during her career. In fact, Moseley Braun has received over 300 awards and 8 honorary degrees for her public service work.
