Gallup, George (1901–1984)

One of the pioneers of the polling field in the United States, George Gallup became the living personification of the industry during the first half century of its development. He was a trained research methodolo-gist who also had a flair for promotion, and he parlayed both into a series of the most successful polling firms in the United States. As an undergraduate, he was interested in journalism and became a student reporter and editor. His interest in, and understanding of, the newspaper business was instrumental in the development of his polling business.

George Gallup was born on November 18, 1901, in Jefferson, Iowa. He earned three degrees from the University of Iowa, including a Ph.D. in psychology. He had a strong interest in audience and attitude ...