Tara Westover Family: A Deep Dive Into The Life And Legacy

Tara Westover's family has become a subject of fascination and study, particularly through the lens of her memoir, "Educated." In this article, we will explore the intricate dynamics of her family, their beliefs, and how these elements shaped her journey. Understanding Tara Westover's family provides essential context for her story and the themes of education, resilience, and identity that resonate throughout her work.

The narrative of Tara's upbringing in rural Idaho, where her family lived off the grid and held strong anti-establishment views, sets the stage for a profound exploration of family dynamics. Her father, Gene Westover, was a strict survivalist, while her mother, LaRee, played a more nuanced role as a midwife and herbalist. These contrasting influences within her family unit created a complex backdrop for Tara's eventual quest for education and self-discovery.

As we delve deeper into the intricacies of Tara Westover's family, we will examine how their beliefs and lifestyles influenced her perceptions of the world and ultimately propelled her to seek knowledge beyond the confines of her upbringing. This exploration will not only highlight her family's impact on her life but also shed light on broader themes of family loyalty, individual ambition, and the quest for truth.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Tara Westover
• Family Background
• Parents: Gene and LaRee Westover
• Siblings: The Westover Clan
• Beliefs and Ideologies
• Impact on Tara's Life
• Tara's Journey to Education
• Conclusion

Biography of Tara Westover

Tara Westover was born on September 27, 1986, in Idaho. She grew up in a strict, survivalist family who valued self-reliance over formal education. Despite never attending school, Tara eventually earned a PhD from the University of Cambridge, a testament to her determination and resilience.

Personal Data and Biodata

Family Background

Tara Westover's family background is pivotal to understanding her story. Growing up in a family that rejected conventional schooling, she was largely isolated from mainstream society. This upbringing created a unique set of challenges and experiences that would later inform her writing and public speaking.

Her family's lifestyle was heavily influenced by their strong beliefs in self-reliance, a principle that her father, Gene, embodied. The Westovers were known for their intense distrust of government and modern medicine, which shaped their daily lives and interactions with the world around them.

Parents: Gene and LaRee Westover

Gene Westover, Tara's father, was a staunch survivalist who believed in preparing for societal collapse. His beliefs dictated the family's way of life, often leading to dangerous situations, especially concerning health and safety. LaRee Westover, on the other hand, was a midwife and herbalist. While she somewhat adhered to her husband's beliefs, she also demonstrated a nurturing side, which influenced Tara's understanding of care and education.

Contrasting Influences

• Gene Westover: A survivalist with a strong distrust of formal education and medical institutions.
• LaRee Westover: A midwife who had a more balanced view and was supportive of her children's health.

Siblings: The Westover Clan

Tara is the youngest of seven siblings, each of whom had varying degrees of involvement with education and the family’s beliefs. This diversity among her siblings further complicated the family dynamics and influenced Tara’s own views on education and independence.

Sibling Dynamics

• Shawn Westover: Tara's brother, with a significant presence in her memoir, often represents the darker side of their upbringing.
• A sibling's influence: Some siblings embraced education, while others remained steadfast in their family's ideologies.

Beliefs and Ideologies

The Westover family's beliefs were rooted in a deep-seated distrust of government and organized religion. This worldview shaped Tara's childhood and her understanding of authority and knowledge. Their rejection of formal education and reliance on personal experience created a dichotomy that Tara would later challenge.

Impact on Tara's Life

Tara's family had a profound impact on her life choices and her eventual pursuit of education. The struggles she faced in reconciling her family's beliefs with her desire for knowledge created a tension that fueled her ambition. This internal conflict is a central theme in her memoir, "Educated."

Tara's Journey to Education

Despite her family's opposition to formal schooling, Tara's journey to education is marked by determination and resilience. She taught herself enough math and grammar to pass the ACT and eventually attended Brigham Young University, where she excelled academically. Her story illustrates the transformative power of education and the importance of self-determination in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

Tara Westover's family background and the beliefs that shaped her upbringing are integral to her story. Her journey from a survivalist household to earning a PhD is a testament to the power of education and the human spirit. Understanding her family dynamics provides valuable insights into the challenges she faced and the resilience she exhibited throughout her life.

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