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Gerald Ford's Real Name: Leslie Lynch King Jr.
Gerald Ford's real name at birth was Leslie Lynch King Jr.
Gerald R. Ford, the 38th president of the United States (1974–1977), was born on July 14, 1913, in Omaha, Nebraska, as Leslie Lynch King Jr., named after his biological father. His parents separated shortly after his birth, and his mother moved with him to Grand Rapids, Michigan.
When his mother married paint salesman Gerald Rudolff Ford, the boy began to be called Gerald Rudolff Ford Jr. He used the name throughout his childhood and legally changed it in 1935. He later spelled his middle name "Rudolph."
Ford became president after Richard Nixon resigned in 1974. He is the only person to serve as both vice president and president without being elected to either office.
FAQ
Who was Gerald Ford named after?
He was born Leslie Lynch King Jr., after his biological father, and later took the name of his stepfather, Gerald Rudolff Ford.
When did Gerald Ford change his name?
He used the Ford name from childhood and made it legal in 1935.