Pronunciation: [mˈɑː fˈɜːɡəsən] (IPA) 
The correct spelling for "Ma Ferguson" is a phonetic rendering of the way Texans say "Maw Ferguson." Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it would be transcribed as /mɑ fɛrɡəsən/. The first syllable rhymes with the word "saw," and the second syllable has a short e sound, as in "pet." The final syllable is pronounced with a short u sound, as in "up," and the stress falls on the second syllable: fer-GUS-on.
Ma Ferguson refers to Miriam Amanda Wallace "Ma" Ferguson, a prominent American politician who served as the first female Governor of Texas, in two non-consecutive terms, from 1925 to 1927 and from 1933 to 1935. She was born on June 13, 1875, in Bell County, Texas, and died on June 25, 1961.
Ma Ferguson entered into politics after her husband, James Edward Ferguson, was impeached and removed from office as Governor of Texas. She capitalized on public sympathy and successfully ran for governor, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Texas. Ma Ferguson was known for her conservative and populist policies, advocating for improved education, prison reform, and increased funding for transportation and infrastructure.
However, her tenure as Governor was marred by allegations of corruption and cronyism, leading to her defeat in the 1926 election. Despite this, she regained power in the 1932 gubernatorial race and focused on relief efforts during the Great Depression.
The name “Ma Ferguson” has become a symbol of early female political leadership in Texas. Her controversial reign has left a lasting legacy, with proponents praising her accomplishments while detractors criticize her for ethical lapses. She paved the way for many other women in politics and has influenced the state's political landscape.
The word "Ma Ferguson" refers to Miriam Amanda Ferguson, known as Ma Ferguson, who was the first female Governor of Texas. It is not based on an etymology related to the meaning of any word but rather a specific individual's name.
