Childhood and Education Journey of Ava Helen Pauling in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 22, 2026

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Ava Helen Pauling. A timeline of key moments.

Ava Helen Pauling was a prominent American human rights activist deeply involved in social movements advocating for women's rights, racial equality, and international peace. She played a crucial role in influencing her husband, Linus Pauling, to become involved in activism, particularly in the movement for nuclear disarmament. Her dedication to social justice and peace made her a significant figure in the 20th century, leaving a legacy of activism and advocacy for a more equitable and peaceful world.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education

December 24, 1903: Ava Helen Pauling's birth

Ava Helen Pauling, born Ava Helen Miller, was born on December 24, 1903.

Others born on this day/year

May 1918: Graduation from Salem High School

In May 1918, Ava Helen graduated from Salem High School. She had enrolled three years prior. Following graduation, she enrolled at Oregon State University.

June 17, 1923: Marriage to Linus Pauling

On June 17, 1923, Ava Helen Miller married Linus Pauling after a brief courtship. They met at Oregon State University where he taught her chemistry.

1925: Birth of Linus Carl Pauling Jr.

In 1925, Ava Helen Pauling and Linus Pauling welcomed their first child, Linus Carl Pauling Jr.

1931: Birth of Peter Jeffress Pauling

In 1931, Ava Helen Pauling and Linus Pauling welcomed their second child, Peter Jeffress Pauling.

1932: Birth of Linda Helen Pauling

In 1932, Ava Helen Pauling and Linus Pauling welcomed their third child, Linda Helen Pauling.

1937: Birth of Edward Crellin Pauling

In 1937, Ava Helen Pauling and Linus Pauling welcomed their fourth child, Edward Crellin Pauling.

1958: Petition to the United Nations

In 1958, Ava Helen Pauling and Linus Pauling presented the United Nations with a petition, which contained over 9,000 signatures from scientists worldwide, demanding an end to atmospheric nuclear weapons testing.

1963: Partial Test Ban Treaty

In 1963, President John F. Kennedy and Nikita Khrushchev signed the Partial Test Ban Treaty. This signing directly resulted in Linus Pauling's receipt of the 1962 Nobel Peace Prize, his second unshared Nobel Prize.