Remembering Ross Perot: A Life of Business and Politics

Name: Remembering Ross Perot: A Life of Business and Politics
Start: 1930-11-10
Location: Unspecified

The Early Years of Ross Perot

Born on June 27, 1930, in Texarkana, Texas, Ross Perot would grow up to become a prominent figure in the fields of entrepreneurship and politics. From a young age, he exhibited a strong work ethic and a keen interest in business, which would lay the groundwork for his future successes. After graduating from Texarkana College, he went on to earn a degree in Industrial Engineering from the United States Naval Academy, further honing his leadership skills.

Ross Perot's Business Ventures

After serving in the Navy, Ross Perot founded Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in 1962, a company that provided data processing services to businesses. Under his guidance, EDS flourished, and by the 1980s, it became a major player in the technology sector. His vision and innovative ideas led the company to great heights and made him a billionaire. In 1984, he sold EDS to General Motors for over $2 billion, solidifying his financial standing.

Perot Systems: Continuing Innovation

In 1997, Ross Perot expanded his entrepreneurial efforts by founding Perot Systems, a technology services firm that focused on delivering IT services to various industries. This venture illustrated his belief in the importance of technology in modern business practices. His relentless pursuit of excellence made Perot Systems a notable competitor in the industry until it was acquired by Dell in 2009.

A Political Legacy On the National Stage

In addition to his illustrious business career, Ross Perot is perhaps best known for his candidacy in the 1992 and 1996 presidential elections. He ran as an independent candidate, appealing to voters disillusioned with the traditional two-party system. During the 1992 race, he famously raised public awareness with his charismatic personality and his focus on issues such as the federal budget deficit.

Ross Perot's 1992 Presidential Run

In 1992, Ross Perot entered the presidential race, capturing the attention of the American public with his unfiltered approach and straightforwardness. He emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and proposed solutions for America's economic challenges. His ability to connect with everyday citizens helped him secure nearly 19% of the popular vote, a noteworthy achievement for a third-party candidate.

The 1996 Campaign and Beyond

Although Perot ran again in 1996, his popularity had waned, and he received just about 8% of the votes. Nevertheless, his two campaigns paved the way for increased debate on important issues, particularly regarding the economy. His influence extended beyond politics, and he remained involved in various philanthropic efforts throughout his life.

A Lasting Influence: Fun Fact

Ross Perot's Interesting Fact

Few know that Ross Perot was also known for his unconventional campaign tactics, including the use of infomercials to reach voters directly. This revolutionized political campaigning and changed how candidates connect with the electorate.