Question
Here is the question : WHAT WAS DEAR ABBY’S LAST NAME?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Van Horn
- Van Dyke
- Van Williams
- Van Buren
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
Dear Abby is the name of the advice column created in 1956 by Pauline Phillips under the pen name ‘Abigail Van Buren’ and continued today by her daughter, Jeanne Phillips, who holds the legal rights to the pen name. According to Pauline Phillips, she chose the pen name Abigail Van Buren by merging the name of the Biblical heroine Abigail from the Book of I Samuel with the last name of former United States President Martin Van Buren. From 1955 through 2002, Pauline Phillips’ twin sister wrote a similar column called Ask Ann Landers.
VAN BUREN: The Last Name of the Beloved Advice Columnist, Dear Abby
For decades, advice columns have provided a valuable resource for individuals seeking guidance and support. One of the most esteemed and widely recognized advice columnists was none other than Dear Abby. Known for her insightful and compassionate responses, Dear Abby’s real name was Pauline Phillips, and her last name was Van Buren. Join me as we explore the life and legacy of this remarkable woman, whose words touched the hearts of millions and made her a trusted confidante to readers around the world.
Born on July 4, 1918, in Sioux City, Iowa, Pauline Phillips grew up to become a woman of immense influence. In 1956, she took on the pseudonym “Abigail Van Buren” and began writing the “Dear Abby” column, following in the footsteps of her twin sister, Esther Lederer, who wrote the equally famous “Ann Landers” column. Pauline’s decision to adopt the pen name Van Buren was a nod to American history, as she admired President Martin Van Buren, the eighth President of the United States.
From the moment she started her column, Dear Abby quickly gained a loyal following. Her compassionate and no-nonsense approach to advice resonated with readers, who saw her as a trusted friend and confidante. Pauline’s responses were known for their practicality, empathy, and occasional touch of humor. She tackled a wide range of topics, including relationships, family dynamics, etiquette, and personal struggles, providing guidance to individuals from all walks of life.
Dear Abby’s success extended far beyond the confines of her advice column. In 1963, she published her first book, titled “Dear Abby,” which compiled some of her most memorable letters and responses. The book became a bestseller, further cementing her status as a respected authority on life’s challenges. Over the course of her career, she went on to publish several more books, including “Dear Abby on Marriage” and “Dear Abby on Planning Your Wedding.”
One of Dear Abby’s most significant contributions was her commitment to addressing sensitive and taboo subjects. She fearlessly tackled issues such as divorce, mental health, and addiction when they were still considered controversial topics. Her willingness to engage in open and honest discussions helped break down societal barriers and fostered a greater understanding and acceptance of diverse experiences.
Dear Abby’s impact reached well beyond her writing. She became a beloved figure in popular culture, making guest appearances on television shows and even inspiring a hit song. In 1983, the British band Madness released the song “Dear John,” which paid homage to Dear Abby’s column and the impact it had on people’s lives.
Pauline Phillips continued writing the Dear Abby column until her retirement in 2002. Her daughter, Jeanne Phillips, took over the column under the same pseudonym, ensuring that the legacy of Dear Abby lived on. Pauline passed away on January 16, 2013, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of empathy, wisdom, and guidance.
Dear Abby, whose last name was Van Buren, made an indelible mark on the world of advice columns. Through her compassionate and practical responses, she became a trusted confidante to millions of readers, providing guidance on a wide range of topics. Her commitment to addressing sensitive issues and her willingness to engage in open discussions helped shape societal attitudes and fostered greater understanding. Dear Abby’s legacy lives on through her enduring impact and the continued guidance offered by her daughter, Jeanne Phillips, ensuring that her words of wisdom continue to resonate with readers around the globe.