Margaret Chase Smith

Margaret Chase Smith was a pioneering American politician from Maine, known for being the first woman elected to both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. Serving from 1940 to 1973, she was a strong advocate for civil rights, peace, and fiscal responsibility. Smith famously spoke out against McCarthyism in her "Declaration of Conscience" speech, criticizing Senator Joseph McCarthy's attacks on innocent people. Her leadership helped break gender barriers in politics and paved the way for future women leaders.