Michelle Obama Biography: Age, Occupation, Life as First Lady, Early Life and Education
Early Life and Education of Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama, born Michelle LaVaughn Robinson on January 17, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, made history as the first African American First Lady of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017 alongside her husband, Barack Obama, the 44th president.
Raised on Chicago’s South Side, Michelle was the daughter of Marian, a homemaker, and Fraser Robinson, who worked at the city’s water-purification plant. Her academic journey took her from Princeton University, where she earned a B.A. in Sociology and African American Studies in 1985, to Harvard Law School, where she completed her J.D. in 1988.
Early Career and Meeting Barack Obama
After law school, Michelle returned to Chicago and began her career as a junior associate at Sidley & Austin (now Sidley Austin LLP), specializing in intellectual property law. It was here, in 1989, that she met Barack Obama, who was working as a summer associate.
Michelle’s career soon took a turn toward public service; in 1991, she became an assistant to Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley. A year later, she and Barack were married. From 1992 to 1993, Michelle served as the assistant commissioner for the Chicago Department of Planning and Development. She then founded the Chicago branch of Public Allies, a leadership-training program for young adults, where she served as executive director until 1996.
Rise to Prominence of Michelle Obama
In 1996, when Barack was elected to the Illinois Senate, Michelle became the associate dean of student services at the University of Chicago, where she played a key role in the school’s community outreach programs. By 2002, she had advanced to the role of executive director of community and external affairs for the University of Chicago.
Two years later, Barack was elected to the U.S. Senate and gained national recognition with his speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. In 2005, Michelle became vice president of community and external affairs for the University of Chicago Medical Center.
Role in the 2008 Presidential Campaign
When Barack Obama announced his candidacy for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination, Michelle took on a prominent role in his campaign. She took leave from her job to focus on the campaign while also caring for their two young daughters. An effective speaker, Michelle was instrumental during the long primary race.
Her openness and candidness on the campaign trail endeared her to many, though some of her remarks drew criticism. Despite this, she played a crucial role in her husband’s campaign, earning the nickname “the closer” for her persuasive abilities. On November 4, 2008, Barack Obama was elected president, and he was re-elected in 2012.
Life as First Lady of Michelle Obama
As First Lady, Michelle Obama championed several causes, notably supporting military families and combating childhood obesity. She promoted healthy eating through the White House Kitchen Garden, which she planted on the South Lawn in 2009. Her experiences with the garden were documented in her book American Grown: The Story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Gardens Across America (2012). Beyond her advocacy work, Michelle was also noted for her fashion sense.
Post-White House Career and Legacy Michelle Obama
During the 2016 presidential race, Michelle supported Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Her speech at the Democratic National Convention, where she famously said, “when they go low, we go high,” was widely praised. After Barack’s presidency ended in 2017, Michelle maintained a low public profile until the release of her autobiography, Becoming, in 2018. The memoir became one of the best-selling in publishing history.
In it, Michelle shared personal insights, including her criticism of Donald Trump, who she accused of endangering her family with his involvement in the “birther” conspiracy. Her book tour inspired the documentary Becoming (2020), which aired on Netflix. In 2020, she also launched The Michelle Obama Podcast on Spotify. In 2022, she published The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times, offering advice on navigating difficult times through her personal experiences.
Michelle Obama’s journey from Chicago’s South Side to the White House has left an indelible mark on American history, inspiring millions with her dedication to service, advocacy, and resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions of Michelle Obama
Who is Michelle Obama?
Michelle Obama is an American lawyer, author, and former First Lady of the United States. She served as First Lady from 2009 to 2017 during the presidency of her husband, Barack Obama. She is the first African American woman to hold this position.
When and where was Michelle Obama born?
Michelle Obama was born on January 17, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
What is Michelle Obama’s educational background?
Michelle Obama graduated from Princeton University in 1985 with a degree in sociology and African American studies. She later earned a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Harvard Law School in 1988.
How did Michelle Obama meet Barack Obama?
Michelle met Barack Obama in 1989 when he was hired as a summer associate at the law firm Sidley & Austin, where she worked as a junior associate.
What causes did Michelle Obama champion as First Lady?
As First Lady, Michelle Obama focused on several key issues, including supporting military families, promoting healthy eating, and combating childhood obesity. She launched the “Let’s Move!” campaign to encourage healthier lifestyles for children.
What books has Michelle Obama written?
Michelle Obama has written two books: American Grown: The Story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Gardens Across America (2012) and her memoir Becoming (2018). She also published The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times in 2022.
What did Michelle Obama do after her time as First Lady?
After leaving the White House, Michelle Obama has continued her advocacy work, published books, and produced content with her husband through their production company, Higher Ground Productions. She also launched The Michelle Obama Podcast in 2020.
What is the significance of Michelle Obama’s book Becoming?
Becoming is a memoir that details Michelle Obama’s life, from her childhood in Chicago to her experiences as First Lady. The book was highly successful, becoming one of the best-selling memoirs of all time.
How has Michelle Obama influenced American culture?
Michelle Obama has had a significant impact on American culture through her advocacy for health, education, and equality. She is also recognized for her influence in fashion and public speaking, particularly her slogan “When they go low, we go high,” which became iconic during the 2016 presidential campaign.
Is Michelle Obama involved in politics?
While Michelle Obama is not directly involved in politics, she remains an influential public figure. She has supported Democratic candidates and causes, most notably endorsing Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election and speaking out on key issues.
What are Michelle Obama’s future plans?
Michelle Obama continues to focus on writing, speaking engagements, and her initiatives through the Obama Foundation. She remains a powerful voice in discussions on leadership, community service, and social change.
