Maxine Waters was born in St. Louis, Missiouri, August 15, 1938. She was the fifth of 13 children who were raised by a single mother. Whether it was that she came from such large family or being from the south, Waters has the gift of 'mother wit', good common sense. Being able to size something up and see it for what it's worth and make a sound decision.

Waters started working at the age of 13 years old. In the segregated south she worked in factories and restaurants. When Waters arrived in Los Angeles she worked in garment factories and at the phone company. Waters attended California State University at Los Angeles, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1970. As a volunteer for the Headstart program she began her career in public service.

One of the most vocal women in politics, Water's voice has not gone un-noticed. She fights for all people. Her concerns are on the cutting edge. This one woman has a hugh voice and demands to be heard, whether she is in the projects of South Central or on the floor of Congress.

Waters is the mother of two adult children and married to former U.S. Ambassador to the Commomwealth of the Bahamas, Sidney Williams