Early Life
Margot Birmingham Perot was born in Texarkana, Texas. She attended Goucher College, where she met her future husband, H. Ross Perot Sr., on a blind date in 1952. She initially pursued a career in education before dedicating her life to supporting her husband and raising their five children.
Rise to Success
Margot played a crucial role in her husband's success, notably by providing the initial $1,000 that launched Electronic Data Systems (EDS). The company was later sold to General Motors in 1984 for $1.5 billion. This financial success laid the foundation for the family's wealth.
Philanthropy
Margot is renowned for her philanthropic work. She has been involved in numerous initiatives, including endowing the Margot Perot Center for Women and Infants in Dallas. She also supports the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Global Fund for Children. Her charitable contributions extend to organizations like the North Texas Food Bank and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
Key Business Strategies
While her husband was the primary business figure, Margot's support and financial contributions were critical to the early success of EDS. Moreover, she helped establish the foundation for the family's continued investments in real estate and other ventures.