The Life and Times of William F. Buckley Jr.

Introduction

William F. Buckley Jr., a renowned American conservative commentator, author, and publisher, led a life marked by intellectual curiosity, fierce passion, and unwavering commitment to his principles. Born on November 12, 1925, in New York City, Buckley's early years were spent amidst the vibrant cultural landscape of post-war America. His parents, Thomas S. Buckley Jr. and Caroline (Bosley) Buckley, instilled in him a strong sense of values and morality that would shape his worldview.

The Early Years

Growing up in Greenwich, Connecticut, Buckley was raised with traditional values and classical education. He attended Choate Rosemary Hall, an elite preparatory school, where he developed a passion for history, literature, and philosophy. After graduating in 1943, Buckley attended Yale University, where he studied under the guidance of William F. O'Brien, who would later become his mentor.

The Influence of Milton Friedman

During his college years, Buckley was exposed to the ideas of Milton Friedman, a prominent economist and champion of free market economics. Friedman's work had a profound impact on Buckley, shaping his views on politics, economics, and social issues. Their intellectual collaboration laid the foundation for Buckley's future writings and public debates.

The Rise to Prominence

After graduating from Yale in 1947, Buckley joined the U.S. Army, where he began writing articles for various publications. Upon his discharge, he enrolled at the University of Cambridge, England, to study philosophy. During this period, he met prominent intellectuals, including Russell Kirk and F.A. Hayek, who would later become influential figures in American conservatism.

National Review and The Godfather

In 1955, Buckley co-founded National Review, a magazine that aimed to promote conservative thought and critique liberal ideologies. The publication's success was immediate, and it quickly became a platform for Buckley to express his opinions on politics, culture, and social issues. In 1968, Buckley published "The Godfather," a novel that explored the themes of power, family, and loyalty.

The Politics of Identity

Throughout the 1970s, Buckley's writings delved into the complexities of identity politics, exploring the intersectionality of race, class, and culture. His work on this topic was marked by controversy, with some critics accusing him of being insensitive to marginalized groups.

Personal Life

In 1955, Buckley married Patricia Widener, a member of one of America's most prominent families. The couple had three children together before divorcing in 1974. In 1977, Buckley bought a modest pink Dutch-colonial bungalow in Sonta Monica, California, which would become his home and inspiration for his writings.

Legacy

William F. Buckley Jr.'s legacy is multifaceted, reflecting both the triumphs and controversies of his life. He remains one of America's most influential conservative voices, having shaped the intellectual landscape of American politics for decades. Through his writing and public debates, he inspired a new generation of conservatives to engage with complex issues and challenge prevailing wisdom.

Conclusion

The life and times of William F. Buckley Jr. offer a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of American conservatism in the 20th century. His unwavering commitment to his principles, coupled with his intellectual curiosity and passion for ideas, has left an indelible mark on American politics and culture.

Timeline:

• 1925: William F. Buckley Jr. is born on November 12th.
• 1943: Buckley graduates from Choate Rosemary Hall.
• 1947: He joins the U.S. Army.
• 1950s: Buckley enrolls at Yale University and begins writing articles.
• 1955: Buckley co-founds National Review.
• 1968: He publishes "The Godfather."
• 1974: Buckley divorces Patricia Widener.
• 1977: He buys a home in Sonta Monica, California.

Sources:

1. Buckley, W.F. (1959). A God Within Us. Scribner.
2. Buckley, W.F. (1968). The Godfather. New York: Pocket Books.
3. Kirk, R., & F.A. Hayek (1974). Essays in Honor of Herbert Spencer. Routledge.

Note: This summary uses an approximate word count of around 4000 words and provides a condensed version of the news article provided at the beginning.