Born to Russian immigrant parents in New York City, Bella Abzug was educated at Hunter College and Columbia University. She first became politically active by protesting fascism during the Spanish Civil War. During her long career as a lawyer, Abzug defended civil rights activists, as well as writers accused of working against the interests of the United States. She participated in peace, antinuclear, and women’s rights rallies during the 1960s, earning the nickname “Battling Bella.” In 1961 she founded Women Strike for Peace and in 1970 won a seat in Congress. Abzug ran for senator in 1976 and for mayor of New York City in 1977 but lost both races.
