Robert Joseph Dole, known as Bob Dole, was born on July 22, 1923, in Russell, Kansas. He came from a modest background and was the eldest of four children. Dole graduated from the University of Kansas in 1942, where he was a pre-medical student. However, his education was interrupted when he enlisted in the Army during World War II. While serving as a second lieutenant in the 10th Mountain Division in Italy, Dole was seriously wounded during combat in 1945. The injuries left him with a disabled right arm and long-term health problems. After his injury, he spent several years recovering in a military hospital. After the war, Dole returned to his studies, earning a law degree from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, in 1952. He started his political career by serving in the Kansas House of Representatives from 1951 to 1953. He then served as county attorney of Russell County from 1953 to 1961. ## Representative to Senator Dole was elected to the U.S. [[House of Representatives]] in 1960, where he served in until 1968. In 1968, he was elected to the U.S. [[Senate]], where he continued to serve in [[Congress]] until 1996. Dole was known for his work on agriculture and food stamp legislation, as well as his efforts in Social Security reform. In the Senate, Dole rose through the ranks and held several key positions, including chairman of the Republican National Committee ([[Republican National Committee (RNC)]]) from 1971 to 1973, Senate Minority Leader from 1987 to 1995, and Senate Majority Leader from 1985 to 1987 and 1995 to 1996. Bob Dole was the Republican Party's nominee for Vice President in 1976 alongside President Gerald Ford, but they were defeated by Jimmy Carter and Walter Mondale. Dole also sought the Republican nomination for President multiple times, securing the nomination in 1996 but losing the election to incumbent President Bill Clinton. Beyond his political career, Bob Dole was known for his wit, often self-deprecating humor, and dedication to public service. After leaving the [[Senate]] in 1996, he remained active in public life, working as a lawyer, author, and commentator. He also served as a spokesperson for various causes, including veterans' issues and health care.