Sara Jane Moore Attempts to Assassinate Gerald Ford
September 22nd, 1975
September 22nd, 1975

How Long Ago?
49 years, 5 months, 21 days ago
Location
San Francisco, California, USA
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Gerald Ford
- Sara Jane Moore
- Oliver Sipple
Links & References
Tags
Sara Jane Moore Attempts to Assassinate Gerald Ford
Sara Jane Moore attempted to assassinate U.S. President Gerald Ford in San Francisco. The incident occurred after Ford delivered a speech at the St. Francis Hotel on September 22, 1975. Armed with a revolver, Moore fired a shot that narrowly missed the president, who was quickly protected by onlookers and the Secret Service. This attempt highlighted security challenges and generated discussions regarding presidential security protocols.
Moore fired a shot that missed Ford by inches.
Oliver Sipple tackled Moore, preventing further shots.
The incident led to reforms in presidential security.
Moore served life in prison for her attempted murder.
What Happened?
Sara Jane Moore sought to assassinate U.S. President Gerald Ford on September 22, 1975, during an appearance at the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. This incident unfolded just weeks after another assassination attempt on Ford by Lynette 'Squeaky' Fromme, a member of the Manson Family, which had previously escalated concerns regarding the safety of the president. Moore, who had been inspired by various political motivations, approached Ford as he was leaving the hotel after delivering a speech. Armed with a .38 caliber revolver, she fired a single shot aimed at the president.
The events of that day showcased the protective instincts of those in the vicinity, particularly a bystander named Oliver Sipple, a former marine, who instinctively tackled Moore after she fired her weapon, effectively preventing any further shots from being taken. His quick response not only saved Ford's life but also drew attention to the potential vulnerability of high-profile figures in public settings. Following this, the Secret Service faced scrutiny for their security strategies and protocols, leading to a fundamental overhaul in how they protected the president.
Moore's motives stemmed from a mix of political disillusionment, feminism, and a desire for notoriety, as she later stated that she contemplated the act to further a message rather than for personal gain. In the aftermath, she was arrested, charged, and ultimately convicted of attempted murder, receiving a life sentence. This episode contributed to the growing awareness of the dangers facing public officials and the increasing need for heightened security measures in American politics.
Why Does it Matter?
This attempted assassination of Gerald Ford is significant as it prompted immediate changes in presidential security protocols. Following both this attempt and the earlier attack by Lynette Fromme, the Secret Service undertook extensive reviews and reforms to enhance the protection of the president. The incident heightened public and governmental awareness around political extremism and the challenges of addressing threats to political figures during a tumultuous period in American history, marked by social upheaval and political mistrust.
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