Sara Jane Moore: The Would-Be Assassin of Gerald Ford

Name: Sara Jane Moore: The Would-Be Assassin of Gerald Ford
Start: 1930-01-15
Location: Unspecified

The Attempt on President Ford's Life

In a chilling episode of American history, on September 22, 1975, Sara Jane Moore attempted to assassinate President Gerald Ford in San Francisco, California. This incident occurred just 17 days after another assassination attempt on the president by Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme, highlighting a period of extraordinary tension and fear for the U.S. leader. Moore, a 45-year-old woman, fired a revolver at close range but missed, thanks to a bystander, Oliver Sipple, who tackled her to the ground.

Sara Jane Moore: Background and Motives

Sara Jane Moore was born in 1930 in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. A former member of the Communist Party, Moore's motivations for attempting to kill Ford stemmed from her political beliefs and disillusionment with the government. After her divorce, she became increasingly radicalized and sought to make a statement through her actions, viewing the president as a symbol of the country's problems.

The Day of the Incident

The day of the assassination attempt was chaotic. Moore had previously attended rallies and communicated with various groups advocating for political change. On that fateful day, she brought a .38 caliber revolver to a gathering where Ford was making an appearance. Her shot was deflected by the quick actions of Sipple, which ultimately saved Ford's life.

The Legal Aftermath of Moore's Actions

Following her arrest, Moore was charged with attempted murder. During the trial, she expressed a range of emotions, indicating that she did not want to kill Ford, only to make a point. Nevertheless, on March 2, 1976, she was sentenced to life in prison, as her actions were considered grave, regardless of her intentions.

The Sentencing and Its Significance

Moore's sentencing was significant, as it underscored the risks faced by public officials during the 1970s. The court's decision reflected the serious nature of her crime and the pervasive fear regarding the safety of political leaders at the time.

Moore's Life in Prison and Release

Sara Jane Moore served over 30 years in prison before being released on parole in 2007, a decision that received considerable public attention and debate. Her case remains a prime example of the complex dynamics between political extremism and personal motivations in the context of American history.

Fun Fact

Sara Jane Moore’s Unintended Impact

Interestingly, Moore's attempt did not only concern a presidential assassination; it inadvertently led to increased security measures for public officials, changing how future presidents were protected during events.