Childhood and Education Journey of Alan Greenspan in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 6, 2026

An overview of the childhood and early education of Alan Greenspan, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Alan Greenspan is an American economist notable for serving as the 13th chairman of the Federal Reserve from 1987 to 2006. Following his tenure at the Federal Reserve, he transitioned to private consulting through Greenspan Associates LLC, providing economic advice to firms.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

March 6, 1926: Alan Greenspan Born

On March 6, 1926, Alan Greenspan was born. He would later become an American economist and the 13th chairman of the Federal Reserve.

Others born on this day/year

1940: Attended George Washington High School

In 1940, Alan Greenspan began attending George Washington High School.

June 1943: Graduated High School

In June 1943, Alan Greenspan graduated from George Washington High School.

1944: Studied at Juilliard School and Rejected from Military Service

In 1944, Alan Greenspan studied clarinet at the Juilliard School. In the same year, he was rejected from military service in World War II due to a spot on his lung.

1945: Attended New York University's Stern School of Business

In 1945, Alan Greenspan began attending New York University's Stern School of Business.

1948: Earned B.A. Degree in Economics

In 1948, Alan Greenspan earned a B.A. degree in economics summa cum laude from New York University's Stern School of Business.

1950: Earned M.A. Degree in Economics

In 1950, Alan Greenspan earned an M.A. degree in economics from New York University's Stern School of Business.

October 1952: Marriage to Joan Mitchell

In October 1952, Alan Greenspan married artist Joan Mitchell; however, the marriage was declared invalid (not a legally completed marriage) 10 months later.

1971: Back Injury

In 1971, Alan Greenspan injured his back which led to a habit of writing in longhand mostly while soaking in the bathtub.

1977: Obtained Ph.D. in Economics

In 1977, Alan Greenspan obtained a Ph.D. in economics from New York University.

December 1984: Began Dating Andrea Mitchell

In December 1984, Alan Greenspan, at the age of 58, began dating journalist Andrea Mitchell, who was 38 at the time.

April 1997: Marriage to Andrea Mitchell

In April 1997, Alan Greenspan married journalist Andrea Mitchell, with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg officiating the ceremony. Because of the annulment, the marriage to Mitchell is legally considered his first marriage.

January 31, 2006: Retirement from the Federal Reserve

On January 31, 2006, Alan Greenspan retired from his position at the Federal Reserve after serving the second-longest tenure in the position. President George W. Bush then appointed Ben Bernanke as his successor.