Tara Westover Family: An In-Depth Look Into Her Life And Background

Tara Westover's journey is one of resilience and determination, deeply rooted in her family background. Born into a survivalist family in rural Idaho, Tara's experiences reflect the complexities and challenges of growing up in a household that valued independence over education. This article will delve into the intriguing dynamics of the Westover family, exploring their beliefs, lifestyle, and the impact they had on Tara's life and her remarkable journey towards education and self-discovery.

In her memoir, "Educated," Tara Westover recounts her upbringing in a family that was largely disconnected from mainstream society. The Westovers were known for their strict adherence to their beliefs, which included skepticism towards formal education and government institutions. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Tara Westover's family, their beliefs, and how these factors shaped her identity and choices.

As we explore the layers of Tara Westover's family life, we will look at her parents, siblings, and the broader implications of their lifestyle choices. Through this exploration, we will also highlight the significance of Tara's eventual pursuit of education and how it served as a catalyst for change within her family dynamics.

Table of Contents

• Family Background
• Parents of Tara Westover
• Tara Westover's Siblings
• Tara's Education Journey
• Beliefs and Lifestyle
• Impact on Tara's Life
• Conclusion
• Sources

Family Background

Tara Westover was born in 1986 in Clifton, Idaho, to parents who were staunchly independent and had a strong distrust of the government and formal institutions. The family lived a life that revolved around self-sufficiency and survivalist principles. They operated a small farm and relied heavily on their own resources, which fostered a deep-seated belief in the importance of personal responsibility and self-reliance.

Family Dynamics

The dynamics within the Westover family were complex. Tara's father, Gene Westover, was a fundamentalist who believed in the need to prepare for an impending apocalypse. This belief led to a lifestyle that was isolated from the outside world, emphasizing manual labor and practical skills over formal education.

The Role of Tara's Mother

Tara's mother, Faye, played a significant role in the family as a herbalist and midwife, further complicating the family's relationship with mainstream medical practices. Faye's work was deeply intertwined with their survivalist beliefs, often leading to a lack of medical attention for the family when needed.

Parents of Tara Westover

Tara Westover's Siblings

Tara is the youngest of seven siblings. Her relationships with her siblings were deeply influenced by their upbringing. While some of her siblings shared the same survivalist beliefs, others began to diverge from the family's teachings as they ventured into the world. This divergence often created tension and conflict within the family.

Notable Siblings

• Tyler Westover – The first in the family to seek formal education, Tyler's journey inspired Tara's own pursuit of knowledge.
• Shawn Westover – Tara's brother, whose strict adherence to family beliefs created significant emotional conflict for her.

Tara's Education Journey

Despite her family's opposition to formal education, Tara's journey towards learning began when she sought knowledge outside her family's beliefs. At the age of 17, she self-studied for the ACT and gained admission to Brigham Young University, marking the beginning of her transformative educational journey.

Key Milestones in Education

• Self-study for the ACT
• Admission to Brigham Young University
• Pursuing a PhD at the University of Cambridge

Beliefs and Lifestyle

The Westover family's beliefs heavily influenced their lifestyle and choices. Their distrust of government and formal institutions led to a unique way of living that prioritized self-reliance and alternative practices. This worldview not only shaped Tara's upbringing but also influenced her perspective on education and authority.

Impact of Beliefs on Education

Tara's family's beliefs created a barrier to education, as formal schooling was often viewed with skepticism. Tara's eventual pursuit of education was a radical departure from her family's values and highlighted the conflict between her desire for knowledge and her family's expectations.

Impact on Tara's Life

Tara's decision to seek education had profound implications for her life and her relationship with her family. It led to a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, but also resulted in significant emotional and psychological struggles as she navigated the complexities of her identity.

Personal Growth and Challenges

Through education, Tara found her voice and the courage to question the beliefs she was raised with. However, this journey was not without challenges, as it often put her at odds with her family's values and expectations.

Conclusion

Tara Westover's family background is a compelling narrative of belief, struggle, and transformation. Her journey from a survivalist upbringing to a successful academic is a testament to the power of education and the resilience of the human spirit. As we reflect on Tara's story, it is essential to recognize the impact of family dynamics on personal growth and the importance of seeking one's path in life.

We invite you to share your thoughts on Tara's journey or any experiences that resonate with her story. Feel free to leave a comment below or share this article with others who may find it inspiring.

Sources

• Westover, Tara. "Educated." Random House, 2018.
• Wikipedia - Tara Westover.
• Various interviews and articles discussing the Westover family dynamic.