Born: 1732, Pope's Creek, VA
Died: 1799
George Washington was raised in the tradition of the gentlemen farmer. As a young man, he was a surveyor in the Shenandoah Valley. He fought in the French and Indian War (1753-1757) and resigned his commission to manage his Mt. Vernon plantation. These experiences, farming the land and fighting for it, awakened in him a vision of a vast agricultural America reaching into the uncharted West.
In 1775 he served as a Virginia delegate to the Second Continental Congress. His opposition to British rule and his military background made him the obvious choice to command the largely untrained Continental Army. Over the next six years, Washington's tenacity and shrewd tactics wore down the British, who surrendered at Yorktown in 1781. Following an interval at Mt. Vernon, Washington chaired the 1787 Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. The Constitution was ratified by the states and Washington's immense popularity led to his unopposed election as President. He nurtured the fledgling republic through the adoption of the Bill of Rights (1791), the establishment of the United States Bank and, following his re-election, the suppression of the Whiskey Rebellion. He declined to run for a third term and retired to Mt. Vernon. The nation's capital was named in his honor.
First President
Federalist
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
John Adams 1797 - 1801
Born: 1735, Quincy, MA
Died: 1826
John Adams, a staunch New Englander, seems a bit of an anomaly surrounded by the "Virginia planter" Presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Madison and Monroe. Reserved and dour, Adams embodied the Puritan ethic. He studied law at Harvard College, and argued eloquently against the British Stamp Act and taxation without Parliamentary representation. Always pressing for the colonies to unite against Britain, "honest John" served as a member of the First and Second Continental Congresses, and in 1776 helped Thomas Jefferson draft the Declaration of Independence. He furthered the cause as a diplomat in Europe during the Revolutionary War, and later helped negotiate the peace treaty with Britain.
A two-term Vice-President under George Washington, Adams presided over the tumultuous birth of a two-party system. Alexander Hamilton's Federalists believed in a strong central government drawing power from the commercial wealth of the North. Thomas Jefferson's Republicans favored agricultural interests and states' rights. Adams narrowly defeated Jefferson in the Presidential race of 1796, but his rival became Vice President and the two forged an effective if volatile partnership, completing the Franco-American Convention of 1800.
Second President
Federalist
Died: 1826
John Adams, a staunch New Englander, seems a bit of an anomaly surrounded by the "Virginia planter" Presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Madison and Monroe. Reserved and dour, Adams embodied the Puritan ethic. He studied law at Harvard College, and argued eloquently against the British Stamp Act and taxation without Parliamentary representation. Always pressing for the colonies to unite against Britain, "honest John" served as a member of the First and Second Continental Congresses, and in 1776 helped Thomas Jefferson draft the Declaration of Independence. He furthered the cause as a diplomat in Europe during the Revolutionary War, and later helped negotiate the peace treaty with Britain.
A two-term Vice-President under George Washington, Adams presided over the tumultuous birth of a two-party system. Alexander Hamilton's Federalists believed in a strong central government drawing power from the commercial wealth of the North. Thomas Jefferson's Republicans favored agricultural interests and states' rights. Adams narrowly defeated Jefferson in the Presidential race of 1796, but his rival became Vice President and the two forged an effective if volatile partnership, completing the Franco-American Convention of 1800.
Second President
Federalist
Thomas Jefferson 1801 - 1809
Born: 1743, Albemarle County, VA
Died: 1826
Thomas Jefferson was a man of many talents: lawyer, farmer, architect, scientist, musician, author, philosopher, and statesman. As a 33-year-old member of the Second Continental Congress, he wrote the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
A Virginia legislator (1776-1779) and Governor (1779-1781), he wrote the Virginia statue of religious freedom and served as Minister to France, Washington's Secretary of the State and John Adams's Vice President, before being elected President in 1800. Jefferson removed the pomp surrounding Presidential affairs, believing that the best government is the least government. In 1803, his Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the nation. He retired after a second term to Monticello, his beloved Virginia home. There he devoted himself to the cause of public education and the creation of the University of Virginia.
Third President
Republican
Died: 1826
Thomas Jefferson was a man of many talents: lawyer, farmer, architect, scientist, musician, author, philosopher, and statesman. As a 33-year-old member of the Second Continental Congress, he wrote the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
A Virginia legislator (1776-1779) and Governor (1779-1781), he wrote the Virginia statue of religious freedom and served as Minister to France, Washington's Secretary of the State and John Adams's Vice President, before being elected President in 1800. Jefferson removed the pomp surrounding Presidential affairs, believing that the best government is the least government. In 1803, his Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the nation. He retired after a second term to Monticello, his beloved Virginia home. There he devoted himself to the cause of public education and the creation of the University of Virginia.
Third President
Republican
James Madison 1809 - 1817
Born: 1751, Port Conway, VA
Died: 1836
James Madison was a small delicate man with a fierce intelligence. After serving in the Virginia Assembly and the Continental Congress, the 36-year-old lawyer played the leading role at the constitutional convention of 1787, where his skillful debates earned him the title "Father of the Constitution." He later led the Congressional effort to pass the Constitutional Amendments known as the Bill of Rights (1791).
After serving as Jefferson's Secretary of State of eight years, Madison was elected President in 1808. He tried to steer a neutral course in the ongoing Franco-British war, but, partly motivated by a desire to conquer Canada, he finally succumbed to Republican pressures and declared war on Britain in 1812. Despite widespread criticism that Madison was "unfit for war," he was re-elected the same year. Although there were notable victories, the new nation took a beating. In 1814 the British marched on Washington, burning the White House and the Capitol. Peace was restored by the Treaty of Ghent. As America entered an era of expansion and prosperity, the Federalist party, reviled for its opposition to the war, vanished from the political scene.
Fourth President
Republican
Died: 1836
James Madison was a small delicate man with a fierce intelligence. After serving in the Virginia Assembly and the Continental Congress, the 36-year-old lawyer played the leading role at the constitutional convention of 1787, where his skillful debates earned him the title "Father of the Constitution." He later led the Congressional effort to pass the Constitutional Amendments known as the Bill of Rights (1791).
After serving as Jefferson's Secretary of State of eight years, Madison was elected President in 1808. He tried to steer a neutral course in the ongoing Franco-British war, but, partly motivated by a desire to conquer Canada, he finally succumbed to Republican pressures and declared war on Britain in 1812. Despite widespread criticism that Madison was "unfit for war," he was re-elected the same year. Although there were notable victories, the new nation took a beating. In 1814 the British marched on Washington, burning the White House and the Capitol. Peace was restored by the Treaty of Ghent. As America entered an era of expansion and prosperity, the Federalist party, reviled for its opposition to the war, vanished from the political scene.
Fourth President
Republican
James Monroe 1817 - 1825
Born: 1758, Westmoreland Co., VA
Died: 1831
Faithful and competent, James Monroe benefited from the company of men more brilliant than he. He fought with Washington in the Revolutionary War and studied law under Thomas Jefferson. He was a Virginia legislator, Governor, and U.S. Senator. As Jefferson's Minister to France he acquired cultivation and taste, which he put into good use in the White House. The peace-loving President also ushered in the so-called "era of good feeling" with a goodwill tour of the strongly Federalist states of New England. Buoyed by his and a prosperous economy, Monroe handily won a second term.
In 1818, a Treaty set the 49th Parallel as the boundary between the U.S. and Canada. America's southern border was redrawn four years later when Spain ceded Florida to America, following the Seminole War. The Missouri Compromise, an ill-conceived attempt to straddle the deep division over slavery, served only to delay armed conflict between North and South. It permitted the slave state of Missouri to join the Union if the free state of Maine also joined, and prohibited slavery entirely north and west of Missouri. the Monroe Doctrine proved more enduring. Declaring that the U.S. would oppose any foreign interference in North and South America, it remains a keystone of U.S. policy today.
Fifth President
Republican
Died: 1831
Faithful and competent, James Monroe benefited from the company of men more brilliant than he. He fought with Washington in the Revolutionary War and studied law under Thomas Jefferson. He was a Virginia legislator, Governor, and U.S. Senator. As Jefferson's Minister to France he acquired cultivation and taste, which he put into good use in the White House. The peace-loving President also ushered in the so-called "era of good feeling" with a goodwill tour of the strongly Federalist states of New England. Buoyed by his and a prosperous economy, Monroe handily won a second term.
In 1818, a Treaty set the 49th Parallel as the boundary between the U.S. and Canada. America's southern border was redrawn four years later when Spain ceded Florida to America, following the Seminole War. The Missouri Compromise, an ill-conceived attempt to straddle the deep division over slavery, served only to delay armed conflict between North and South. It permitted the slave state of Missouri to join the Union if the free state of Maine also joined, and prohibited slavery entirely north and west of Missouri. the Monroe Doctrine proved more enduring. Declaring that the U.S. would oppose any foreign interference in North and South America, it remains a keystone of U.S. policy today.
Fifth President
Republican
John Quincy Adams 1825 - 1829
Born: 1767, Quincy, MA
Died: 1848
Like his father, President John Adams, John Quincy Adams was steadfast in his principles. But he had a prickly personality that earned him few friends. The Harvard-trained lawyer served as a U.S. Senator and the nation's first Ambassador to Russia. He excelled as Monroe's Secretary of State, helping to formulate the Monroe Doctrine and negotiating the acquisition of Florida.
Adam's election to the Presidency was decided by the House of Representatives since neither he nor his political nemesis, Andrew Jackson, had won a majority (although Jackson received more electoral and popular votes). Jackson and his followers in Congress opposed Adams throughout his Presidency, criticizing him as a monarchist and blocking his efforts to create a National Bank and university, and to improve the nation's infrastructure. Adams did succeed in opening the Erie Canal and established the Smithsonian Institution, but he remained unpopular throughout his term and was soundly defeated in his re-election bid. Returning to Massachusetts, he was elected to Congress, where, for 17 years until he died, he opposed slavery and supported civil liberties.
Sixth President
Republican
Died: 1848
Like his father, President John Adams, John Quincy Adams was steadfast in his principles. But he had a prickly personality that earned him few friends. The Harvard-trained lawyer served as a U.S. Senator and the nation's first Ambassador to Russia. He excelled as Monroe's Secretary of State, helping to formulate the Monroe Doctrine and negotiating the acquisition of Florida.
Adam's election to the Presidency was decided by the House of Representatives since neither he nor his political nemesis, Andrew Jackson, had won a majority (although Jackson received more electoral and popular votes). Jackson and his followers in Congress opposed Adams throughout his Presidency, criticizing him as a monarchist and blocking his efforts to create a National Bank and university, and to improve the nation's infrastructure. Adams did succeed in opening the Erie Canal and established the Smithsonian Institution, but he remained unpopular throughout his term and was soundly defeated in his re-election bid. Returning to Massachusetts, he was elected to Congress, where, for 17 years until he died, he opposed slavery and supported civil liberties.
Sixth President
Republican
Andrew Jackson 1829 - 1837
Born: 1767, Waxhaw, SC
Died: 1845
Andrew Jackson was a Tennessee frontiersman, lawyer and military hero whose stunning defeat of the British at New Orleans in 1815 launched a colorful and tumultuous political career. After losing the presidency to fellow Republican John Quincy Adams in 1825, he started an opposition party in Congress, calling it the Democratic-Republicans (shortened to Democrats). Jackson wrested the Presidency from Adams in 1829. His personal charisma, his penchant for plain talk and his image as a Washington outsider proved irresistible to Americans who had just gained the vote. "Old Hickory" rolled into office on a wave of populist fervor, his supporters nearly causing a riot at his inaugural.
Jackson used the power of the Presidency as none before him. He dismissed almost 2,000 government employees in an effort to eradicate a "corrupt bureaucracy," and filled the vacancies with party loyalists. His veto of a bill to recharter the National Bank infuriated his opponents -- but not the electorate, who re-elected him decisively. In his second term, Jackson defeated South Carolina's attempt to nullify the tariff laws, paid off the national debt, and survived a bungled assassination attempt. He recognized the Republic of Texas in 1836 and retired from office as popular as ever.
Seventh President
Democrat
Died: 1845
Andrew Jackson was a Tennessee frontiersman, lawyer and military hero whose stunning defeat of the British at New Orleans in 1815 launched a colorful and tumultuous political career. After losing the presidency to fellow Republican John Quincy Adams in 1825, he started an opposition party in Congress, calling it the Democratic-Republicans (shortened to Democrats). Jackson wrested the Presidency from Adams in 1829. His personal charisma, his penchant for plain talk and his image as a Washington outsider proved irresistible to Americans who had just gained the vote. "Old Hickory" rolled into office on a wave of populist fervor, his supporters nearly causing a riot at his inaugural.
Jackson used the power of the Presidency as none before him. He dismissed almost 2,000 government employees in an effort to eradicate a "corrupt bureaucracy," and filled the vacancies with party loyalists. His veto of a bill to recharter the National Bank infuriated his opponents -- but not the electorate, who re-elected him decisively. In his second term, Jackson defeated South Carolina's attempt to nullify the tariff laws, paid off the national debt, and survived a bungled assassination attempt. He recognized the Republic of Texas in 1836 and retired from office as popular as ever.
Seventh President
Democrat
Martin Van Buren 1837 - 1841
Born: 1782, Kinderhook, NY
Died: 1862
Martin Van Buren was Andrew Jackson's early supporter, but the two men were not alike. A Northerner, Van Buren had the instincts of a back-room politician, while the Southern-born Jackson was a flamboyant and outspoken populist. Their unlikely alliance was forged in steel when Jackson named the Senator from New York his Secretary of State in 1829. Jackson's running mate in 1832, Van Buren succeeded him as President, defeating three candidates from the newly formed Whig Party. The Panic of 1837 followed, brought on in part by Jackson's 1836 order requiring land speculators to pay for property in silver and gold. As bankruptcies multiplied, Van Buren did nothing, hoping the crisis would resolve itself. Instead, cotton prices plummeted in 1839. The President responded with the Treasury Bill of 1840, but his previous hard line had already alienated many.
"The Little Magician" -- Van Buren's nickname from happier days -- was also criticized for rewarding supporters with political favors. The Whigs portrayed him as a high living, insensitive aristocrat, in contrast to their own "log cabin candidate," William Henry Harrison, who soundly defeated the incumbent in 1841. Van Buren ran unsuccessfully for President again in 1848 on the anti-slavery Free Soil ticket.
Eighth President
Democrat
Died: 1862
Martin Van Buren was Andrew Jackson's early supporter, but the two men were not alike. A Northerner, Van Buren had the instincts of a back-room politician, while the Southern-born Jackson was a flamboyant and outspoken populist. Their unlikely alliance was forged in steel when Jackson named the Senator from New York his Secretary of State in 1829. Jackson's running mate in 1832, Van Buren succeeded him as President, defeating three candidates from the newly formed Whig Party. The Panic of 1837 followed, brought on in part by Jackson's 1836 order requiring land speculators to pay for property in silver and gold. As bankruptcies multiplied, Van Buren did nothing, hoping the crisis would resolve itself. Instead, cotton prices plummeted in 1839. The President responded with the Treasury Bill of 1840, but his previous hard line had already alienated many.
"The Little Magician" -- Van Buren's nickname from happier days -- was also criticized for rewarding supporters with political favors. The Whigs portrayed him as a high living, insensitive aristocrat, in contrast to their own "log cabin candidate," William Henry Harrison, who soundly defeated the incumbent in 1841. Van Buren ran unsuccessfully for President again in 1848 on the anti-slavery Free Soil ticket.
Eighth President
Democrat
William Henry Harrison 1841
Born: 1773, Charles City County, VA
Died: 1841
The son of patriot Benjamin Harrison, who served as Virginia governor and signed the Declaration of Independence, William Henry Harrison brought political and military experience as well as a proud lineage to the White House. Sadly, he was President only a month before he caught pneumonia and died.
William Henry Harrison joined the Army in 1791 and fought several campaigns against the Indians. As Governor of the Indiana Territory (1801-1813), he helped open up the Ohio Valley for settlement. In the ensuing Indian uprising, he became a national hero when he defeated Tecumseh, the great warrior, at the Tippecanoe River. In the War of 1812, Harrison led American soldiers to several victories in the Northwest. He was a U.S. Senator from Ohio when nominated for the Presidency. Deceptively portrayed as "the log cabin and hard cider candidate" (the Harrisons were a wealthy family), he and his running mate, John Tyler, toured the country, attracting huge crowds chanting "Tippecanoe and Tyler Too." The war hero easily defeated the unpopular Martin Van Buren, but became ill after delivering his inaugural speech in a downpour and died a month later. John Tyler finished out his term.
Ninth President
Whig
Died: 1841
The son of patriot Benjamin Harrison, who served as Virginia governor and signed the Declaration of Independence, William Henry Harrison brought political and military experience as well as a proud lineage to the White House. Sadly, he was President only a month before he caught pneumonia and died.
William Henry Harrison joined the Army in 1791 and fought several campaigns against the Indians. As Governor of the Indiana Territory (1801-1813), he helped open up the Ohio Valley for settlement. In the ensuing Indian uprising, he became a national hero when he defeated Tecumseh, the great warrior, at the Tippecanoe River. In the War of 1812, Harrison led American soldiers to several victories in the Northwest. He was a U.S. Senator from Ohio when nominated for the Presidency. Deceptively portrayed as "the log cabin and hard cider candidate" (the Harrisons were a wealthy family), he and his running mate, John Tyler, toured the country, attracting huge crowds chanting "Tippecanoe and Tyler Too." The war hero easily defeated the unpopular Martin Van Buren, but became ill after delivering his inaugural speech in a downpour and died a month later. John Tyler finished out his term.
Ninth President
Whig
John Tyler 1841 - 1845
Born: 1790, Charles City County, VA
Died: 1862
Descended from wealthy Virginia planters, and the son of a federal judge, John Tyler served with distinction in both houses of the Virginia legislature, as a two-term Governor, and in both houses of Congress before becoming the nation's first unelected President.
An ardent supporter of states' rights, Tyler defected from the Democratic party and joined the Whigs in protest of President Jackson's expansive use of federal power. The Whigs picked Tyler as Harrison's running-mate to balance the ticket and win the South. But they never expected him to become President one month into Harrison's first term. When he did, the stubborn and independent Tyler proceeded to quash the sweeping nationalist agenda championed by powerful Whig Senator Henry Clay. In 1841, when Tyler vetoed the Whigs' National Bank bills, his entire cabinet save one, Secretary of State Daniel Webster, resigned and Tyler was expelled from the party.
Despite these difficulties, Tyler settled a territorial dispute between Maine and New Brunswick in 1842 and ended the Second Seminole War. In 1845 he accepted Texas into the Union over the ardent protests of American abolitionists.
Tenth President
Whig
Died: 1862
Descended from wealthy Virginia planters, and the son of a federal judge, John Tyler served with distinction in both houses of the Virginia legislature, as a two-term Governor, and in both houses of Congress before becoming the nation's first unelected President.
An ardent supporter of states' rights, Tyler defected from the Democratic party and joined the Whigs in protest of President Jackson's expansive use of federal power. The Whigs picked Tyler as Harrison's running-mate to balance the ticket and win the South. But they never expected him to become President one month into Harrison's first term. When he did, the stubborn and independent Tyler proceeded to quash the sweeping nationalist agenda championed by powerful Whig Senator Henry Clay. In 1841, when Tyler vetoed the Whigs' National Bank bills, his entire cabinet save one, Secretary of State Daniel Webster, resigned and Tyler was expelled from the party.
Despite these difficulties, Tyler settled a territorial dispute between Maine and New Brunswick in 1842 and ended the Second Seminole War. In 1845 he accepted Texas into the Union over the ardent protests of American abolitionists.
Tenth President
Whig
James Knox Polk 1845 - 1849
Born: 1795, Mecklenburg County, NC
Died: 1849
James Polk was a Tennessee lawyer, Governor and U.S. Speaker of the House before he emerged as the Democrats' compromise Presidential candidate in 1845, defeating the Whig leader Henry Clay. The "dark horse" President claimed America had a "manifest destiny" to expand across the continent. The public agreed, but his own party was divided on the issue, knowing that Polk's vision could well result in war with Mexico or Britain.
The Mexican War began in 1846 after Texas joined the Union. Triumphant American forces entered Mexico City in 1847. The Guadalupe-Hidalgo Treaty of 1848 established the Texas border at the Rio Grande and provided for America's purchase of a huge tract of land encompassing what is now California and Nevada and parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. War with Britain in the Northwest was averted by the Oregon Treaty of 1846, which fixed most of that territory's boundary at the 49th parallel.
Polk fulfilled all his campaign pledges, including lowering the national tariff and establishing an independent Treasury. The Presidency took a toll on his health, however, and he died three months after leaving office.
Eleventh President
Democrat
Died: 1849
James Polk was a Tennessee lawyer, Governor and U.S. Speaker of the House before he emerged as the Democrats' compromise Presidential candidate in 1845, defeating the Whig leader Henry Clay. The "dark horse" President claimed America had a "manifest destiny" to expand across the continent. The public agreed, but his own party was divided on the issue, knowing that Polk's vision could well result in war with Mexico or Britain.
The Mexican War began in 1846 after Texas joined the Union. Triumphant American forces entered Mexico City in 1847. The Guadalupe-Hidalgo Treaty of 1848 established the Texas border at the Rio Grande and provided for America's purchase of a huge tract of land encompassing what is now California and Nevada and parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. War with Britain in the Northwest was averted by the Oregon Treaty of 1846, which fixed most of that territory's boundary at the 49th parallel.
Polk fulfilled all his campaign pledges, including lowering the national tariff and establishing an independent Treasury. The Presidency took a toll on his health, however, and he died three months after leaving office.
Eleventh President
Democrat
Zachary Taylor 1849 - 1850
Born: 1784, Montebello, VA
Died: 1850
Popularly known as "Old Rough and Ready," General Zachary Taylor was long admired as a leader of fighting men. Courageous and principled, he distinguished himself in the Indian campaigns and against the British in the War of 1812. Key victories during the Mexican War made him a national hero and brought him to the attention of the Whig Party. Though a slave-owning southerner, Taylor was also a strong nationalist. He won a close victory over the Democrats, whose votes were siphoned off by a third candidate, Free-Soiler Martin Van Buren.
Tensions between North and South were mounting when President Taylor took office. The addition of new territories such as California and New Mexico caused the unraveling of the Missouri Compromise. When Taylor opposed extending slavery of these territories, southern states threatened secession. The President's response was swift -- he threatened war, saying he'd lead the Army himself and hang the rebels. But Taylor's sudden death turned the crisis over to his Vice-President, Millard Fillmore, whose feeble attempt at yet another compromise only delayed the inevitable bloody conflict.
Twelfth President
Whig
Died: 1850
Popularly known as "Old Rough and Ready," General Zachary Taylor was long admired as a leader of fighting men. Courageous and principled, he distinguished himself in the Indian campaigns and against the British in the War of 1812. Key victories during the Mexican War made him a national hero and brought him to the attention of the Whig Party. Though a slave-owning southerner, Taylor was also a strong nationalist. He won a close victory over the Democrats, whose votes were siphoned off by a third candidate, Free-Soiler Martin Van Buren.
Tensions between North and South were mounting when President Taylor took office. The addition of new territories such as California and New Mexico caused the unraveling of the Missouri Compromise. When Taylor opposed extending slavery of these territories, southern states threatened secession. The President's response was swift -- he threatened war, saying he'd lead the Army himself and hang the rebels. But Taylor's sudden death turned the crisis over to his Vice-President, Millard Fillmore, whose feeble attempt at yet another compromise only delayed the inevitable bloody conflict.
Twelfth President
Whig
Millard Fillmore 1850 - 1853
Born: 1800, Cayuga County, NY
Died: 1874
Millard Fillmore became President after the sudden death of Zachary Taylor. Son of a poor farmer, Fillmore was apprenticed to a cloth maker, but studied law and entered politics, serving as Comptroller of New York, U.S. Congressman, and Vice-President. Although he personally opposed slavery, President Fillmore supported Henry Clay's Compromise of 1850. The Compromise allowed California to join the Union as a free state in exchange for Congressional enactment of the Fugitive Slave Act, which helped slaveholders recapture runaway slaves. Abolitionists were outraged, including many Northern Whigs, and passions were further inflamed by the 1852 publican of Harriet Beecher Stowe's anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom Cabin.
Fillmore did manage to secure a trade agreement with Japan, but he came under increasing attack from both pro- and anti-slavery factions, and his ineptitude in resolving the slavery issue led to his demise. The Whigs nominated another candidate in 1852. the party eventually disintegrated, ruined by the same forces that were tearing the nation apart. In 1856 Fillmore ran unsuccessfully for President on the xenophobic American (nicknamed "Know-Nothing") party ticket.
Thirteenth President
Whig
Died: 1874
Millard Fillmore became President after the sudden death of Zachary Taylor. Son of a poor farmer, Fillmore was apprenticed to a cloth maker, but studied law and entered politics, serving as Comptroller of New York, U.S. Congressman, and Vice-President. Although he personally opposed slavery, President Fillmore supported Henry Clay's Compromise of 1850. The Compromise allowed California to join the Union as a free state in exchange for Congressional enactment of the Fugitive Slave Act, which helped slaveholders recapture runaway slaves. Abolitionists were outraged, including many Northern Whigs, and passions were further inflamed by the 1852 publican of Harriet Beecher Stowe's anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom Cabin.
Fillmore did manage to secure a trade agreement with Japan, but he came under increasing attack from both pro- and anti-slavery factions, and his ineptitude in resolving the slavery issue led to his demise. The Whigs nominated another candidate in 1852. the party eventually disintegrated, ruined by the same forces that were tearing the nation apart. In 1856 Fillmore ran unsuccessfully for President on the xenophobic American (nicknamed "Know-Nothing") party ticket.
Thirteenth President
Whig
Franklin Pierce 1853 - 1857
Born: 1804, Hillsborough, NH
Died: 1869
Franklin Pierce was thrust into the Presidential melee of 1852 by New Hampshire supporters, after 47 ballots failed to produce a Democratic nominee. Having been the youngest-ever member of the U.S. Senate in 1837, he became the then-youngest President when elected in 1853. The tragic death of Pierce's 11-year-old son in a train wreck darkened the early days of his Presidency. National events were no more portentous of a happy tenure in the White House.
Northern opposition forced Pierce to abandon his plans to acquire Hawaii, Alaska and Cuba, although he did manage to buy a large tract from Mexico that is now part of Arizona and New Mexico (the Gadsen Purchase) for a Southern railroad. In 1854, the Kansas-Nebraska Act superceded the Missouri Compromise. It enabled residents in all the new territories to determine their own slavery policy. Both pro and anti-slave factions poured into Kansas to try to wrest control of that pivotal territory. Shooting and bloodshed followed, giving Americans a foretaste of the Civil War. "Bleeding Kansas" lost President Pierce the support of his party and the Democrats failed to nominate him for a second term.
Fourteenth President
Democrat
Died: 1869
Franklin Pierce was thrust into the Presidential melee of 1852 by New Hampshire supporters, after 47 ballots failed to produce a Democratic nominee. Having been the youngest-ever member of the U.S. Senate in 1837, he became the then-youngest President when elected in 1853. The tragic death of Pierce's 11-year-old son in a train wreck darkened the early days of his Presidency. National events were no more portentous of a happy tenure in the White House.
Northern opposition forced Pierce to abandon his plans to acquire Hawaii, Alaska and Cuba, although he did manage to buy a large tract from Mexico that is now part of Arizona and New Mexico (the Gadsen Purchase) for a Southern railroad. In 1854, the Kansas-Nebraska Act superceded the Missouri Compromise. It enabled residents in all the new territories to determine their own slavery policy. Both pro and anti-slave factions poured into Kansas to try to wrest control of that pivotal territory. Shooting and bloodshed followed, giving Americans a foretaste of the Civil War. "Bleeding Kansas" lost President Pierce the support of his party and the Democrats failed to nominate him for a second term.
Fourteenth President
Democrat
Monday, November 26, 2007
James Buchanan 1857 - 1861
Born: 1791, Cove Gap, PA
Died: 1869
A lawyer, Congressman, Senator and Secretary of State under Polk, James Buchanan was untainted by the fractious domestic politics of the Franklin Pierce Presidency, thanks to his posting overseas as Pierce's Minister to Britain. Chosen as the Democrat's Presidential candidate in 1856, Buchanan favored popular sovereignty in the territories and tried generally to downplay the divisive slavery issue. His attitude of denial worked for a time -- he defeated the candidate of the newly formed Republican party, which opposed slavery's extension. Just days after his inauguration the Supreme Court handed down the Dred Scott decision, holding that Congress could not bar slavery from the territories. But in 1858 Republicans controlling the House of Representatives refused to allow Kansas into the Union as a slave state. The government became deadlocked.
In 1860 the Democrats abandoned Buchanan. Now split into Northern and Southern wings, each with its own Presidential candidate, the party essentially handed over the Presidency to the Republican, Abraham Lincoln. Seven southern states seceded rather than accept the election and Buchanan's Southern Cabinet members, resigned to join the Confederacy. Buchanan called the secession illegal, but took no action to save the Union.
Fifteenth President
Democrat
Died: 1869
A lawyer, Congressman, Senator and Secretary of State under Polk, James Buchanan was untainted by the fractious domestic politics of the Franklin Pierce Presidency, thanks to his posting overseas as Pierce's Minister to Britain. Chosen as the Democrat's Presidential candidate in 1856, Buchanan favored popular sovereignty in the territories and tried generally to downplay the divisive slavery issue. His attitude of denial worked for a time -- he defeated the candidate of the newly formed Republican party, which opposed slavery's extension. Just days after his inauguration the Supreme Court handed down the Dred Scott decision, holding that Congress could not bar slavery from the territories. But in 1858 Republicans controlling the House of Representatives refused to allow Kansas into the Union as a slave state. The government became deadlocked.
In 1860 the Democrats abandoned Buchanan. Now split into Northern and Southern wings, each with its own Presidential candidate, the party essentially handed over the Presidency to the Republican, Abraham Lincoln. Seven southern states seceded rather than accept the election and Buchanan's Southern Cabinet members, resigned to join the Confederacy. Buchanan called the secession illegal, but took no action to save the Union.
Fifteenth President
Democrat
Abraham Lincoln 1861 - 1865
Born: 1809, Hardin County, KY
Died: 1865
Abraham Lincoln grew up in poverty on the Indiana frontier. Hard-working and self-educated, he was a farmhand, boatman, store manager, postman and surveyor before entering Illinois politics and becoming a successful trial lawyer. Passionately opposed to slavery, "Honest Abe" joined the Republican Party in 1856, and ran against Democrat Stephen Douglas for the U.S. Senate two years later. He lost, but his brilliant campaign oratory secured him the Republican Presidential nomination in 1860.
Between Lincoln's election and inauguration, seven Southern states seceded. On April 12, 1861, the Confederates attacked Fort Sumter. Nearly two years later, the Civil War still raging, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation (slavery was later banned by the 13th Amendment). In November 1863, Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, vowing "that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." The bloodiest conflict in U.S. history, the Civil War cost more American lives than the two World Wars and Vietnam combined. Re-elected in 1864, Lincoln lived to see the south surrender on April 9, 1865. Five days later, he was assassinated, before he could fulfill his pledge to "bind up the nation's wounds."
Sixteenth President
Republican
Died: 1865
Abraham Lincoln grew up in poverty on the Indiana frontier. Hard-working and self-educated, he was a farmhand, boatman, store manager, postman and surveyor before entering Illinois politics and becoming a successful trial lawyer. Passionately opposed to slavery, "Honest Abe" joined the Republican Party in 1856, and ran against Democrat Stephen Douglas for the U.S. Senate two years later. He lost, but his brilliant campaign oratory secured him the Republican Presidential nomination in 1860.
Between Lincoln's election and inauguration, seven Southern states seceded. On April 12, 1861, the Confederates attacked Fort Sumter. Nearly two years later, the Civil War still raging, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation (slavery was later banned by the 13th Amendment). In November 1863, Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, vowing "that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." The bloodiest conflict in U.S. history, the Civil War cost more American lives than the two World Wars and Vietnam combined. Re-elected in 1864, Lincoln lived to see the south surrender on April 9, 1865. Five days later, he was assassinated, before he could fulfill his pledge to "bind up the nation's wounds."
Sixteenth President
Republican
Andrew Johnson 1865 - 1869
Born: 1808, Raleigh, NC
Died: 1875
As a child Andrew Johnson was a tailor's apprentice who later opened his own shop in Tennessee. A champion of the common man, he taught himself reading and the rudiments of law, and entered politics as a Democrat. The only Southern Senator who remained loyal to the Union when the South seceded, Johnson was chosen by the National Union League (a coalition of Republicans and War Democrats) to run with Lincoln in 1864.
When the President was assassinated, Johnson tried to restore southern prosperity and pride, but lacking Lincoln's genius and hard-won reputation as a man of his word, Johnson never had a chance. sharing Lincoln's desire for reconstruction instead of retribution, Johnson offered amnesty to those who pledged allegiance to the Union. But many Southern states were enacting racially discriminatory "black codes," angering the Radical Republicans in Congress. They responded with a volley of laws passed over the President's vetoes, and placed the South under military occupation. In 1868 the House initiated impeachment proceedings against Johnson for firing his Secretary of War, but the Senate fell one vote short of conviction. Johnson's one success was in buying Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million.
Seventeenth President
National Union
Died: 1875
As a child Andrew Johnson was a tailor's apprentice who later opened his own shop in Tennessee. A champion of the common man, he taught himself reading and the rudiments of law, and entered politics as a Democrat. The only Southern Senator who remained loyal to the Union when the South seceded, Johnson was chosen by the National Union League (a coalition of Republicans and War Democrats) to run with Lincoln in 1864.
When the President was assassinated, Johnson tried to restore southern prosperity and pride, but lacking Lincoln's genius and hard-won reputation as a man of his word, Johnson never had a chance. sharing Lincoln's desire for reconstruction instead of retribution, Johnson offered amnesty to those who pledged allegiance to the Union. But many Southern states were enacting racially discriminatory "black codes," angering the Radical Republicans in Congress. They responded with a volley of laws passed over the President's vetoes, and placed the South under military occupation. In 1868 the House initiated impeachment proceedings against Johnson for firing his Secretary of War, but the Senate fell one vote short of conviction. Johnson's one success was in buying Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million.
Seventeenth President
National Union
Ulysses S. Grant 1869 - 1877
Born: 1822, Point Pleasant, OH
Died: 1885
Apart from his years in command of the victorious Union forces in the Civil War, the life of Ulysses S. Grant was filled with sorrow and setbacks. Alcoholism forced the unremarkable West Point graduate to resign from the Army after serving in the Mexican war under General Zachary Taylor. Grant tried various jobs, and finally settled down as a clerk in his father's Illinois leather goods store. He re-enlisted when Civil War broke out. His military acumen earned him successive promotions, and in 1864 Lincoln appointed him General-in-Chief. Roughly one year later, General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox Courthouse. In 1868, Grant was chosen by the Radical Republicans to follow the beleaguered Andrew Johnson.
The war hero proved a poor chief executive, filling many jobs with corrupt or incompetent relatives and friends. Although personally honest, he drew criticism for accepting expensive gifts and his two terms in office were plagued by scandals. After he left, Grant joined a New York investment firm and lost his entire fortune through the chicanery of his associates. He completed his memoirs -- a work of clarity and grace -- while dying of cancer. The proceeds were to pay off his creditors and provide for his family.
Eighteenth President
Republican
Died: 1885
Apart from his years in command of the victorious Union forces in the Civil War, the life of Ulysses S. Grant was filled with sorrow and setbacks. Alcoholism forced the unremarkable West Point graduate to resign from the Army after serving in the Mexican war under General Zachary Taylor. Grant tried various jobs, and finally settled down as a clerk in his father's Illinois leather goods store. He re-enlisted when Civil War broke out. His military acumen earned him successive promotions, and in 1864 Lincoln appointed him General-in-Chief. Roughly one year later, General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox Courthouse. In 1868, Grant was chosen by the Radical Republicans to follow the beleaguered Andrew Johnson.
The war hero proved a poor chief executive, filling many jobs with corrupt or incompetent relatives and friends. Although personally honest, he drew criticism for accepting expensive gifts and his two terms in office were plagued by scandals. After he left, Grant joined a New York investment firm and lost his entire fortune through the chicanery of his associates. He completed his memoirs -- a work of clarity and grace -- while dying of cancer. The proceeds were to pay off his creditors and provide for his family.
Eighteenth President
Republican
Rutherford B. Hayes 1877 - 1881
Born: 1822, Delaware, OH
Died: 1893
Rutherford B. Hayes presided over a war-torn nation reveling in a measure of stability - with a stable leader at the helm. A Harvard-trained lawyer and Civil War hero wounded in battle four times, the former Ohio governor brought integrity and skill to a White House badly in need of both. His election in 1876 was a rancorous affair, however, the most controversial in U.S. history. Democrat Samuel Tilden outpolled Hayes in popular votes, with the electoral votes of four states in dispute. A special Electoral Commission made up of a Republican majority awarded all the disputed votes to Hayes.
Once securely in office, President Hayes reformed the civil service, basing appointments on merit rather than the spoils system. He appeased Southern Democrats by withdrawing Federal troops from the South and appointing former Confederates to government positions, thereby bringing Reconstruction to an end. Hayes's economic policies inspired confidence among business leaders. The President refused to seek a second term, turning over to his successor a nation prosperous and at peace.
Nineteenth President
Republican
Died: 1893
Rutherford B. Hayes presided over a war-torn nation reveling in a measure of stability - with a stable leader at the helm. A Harvard-trained lawyer and Civil War hero wounded in battle four times, the former Ohio governor brought integrity and skill to a White House badly in need of both. His election in 1876 was a rancorous affair, however, the most controversial in U.S. history. Democrat Samuel Tilden outpolled Hayes in popular votes, with the electoral votes of four states in dispute. A special Electoral Commission made up of a Republican majority awarded all the disputed votes to Hayes.
Once securely in office, President Hayes reformed the civil service, basing appointments on merit rather than the spoils system. He appeased Southern Democrats by withdrawing Federal troops from the South and appointing former Confederates to government positions, thereby bringing Reconstruction to an end. Hayes's economic policies inspired confidence among business leaders. The President refused to seek a second term, turning over to his successor a nation prosperous and at peace.
Nineteenth President
Republican
James A. Garfield 1881
Born: 1831, Orange, OH
Died: 1881
James Garfield was born in a log cabin on an Ohio farm. His father died when he was only two, and Garfield worked on canal boats to put himself through Williams College, later becoming a classics professor and college president. A vociferous opponent of slavery, he fought for the Union in the Civil War, rising to the rank of major general. He reluctantly resigned his commission when elected to Congress in 1862, after serving three years in the Ohio Senate. "Boatman Jim" was chosen by the Republicans in 1880 as a compromise Presidential candidate on the 36th ballot. He defeated the Democrats by less than 10,000 popular votes.
Once in office, Garfield took a stand against political corruption. He won a showdown with powerful New York Senator Roscoe Conkling, with his choice of Conkling's rival to head the New York Customs House. But an unrelated patronage decision cost Garfield his life. On July 2, 1881, Garfield was shot by an attorney who had been denied a government post. He died two months later - the second President killed by an assassin's bullet.
Twentieth President
Republican
Died: 1881
James Garfield was born in a log cabin on an Ohio farm. His father died when he was only two, and Garfield worked on canal boats to put himself through Williams College, later becoming a classics professor and college president. A vociferous opponent of slavery, he fought for the Union in the Civil War, rising to the rank of major general. He reluctantly resigned his commission when elected to Congress in 1862, after serving three years in the Ohio Senate. "Boatman Jim" was chosen by the Republicans in 1880 as a compromise Presidential candidate on the 36th ballot. He defeated the Democrats by less than 10,000 popular votes.
Once in office, Garfield took a stand against political corruption. He won a showdown with powerful New York Senator Roscoe Conkling, with his choice of Conkling's rival to head the New York Customs House. But an unrelated patronage decision cost Garfield his life. On July 2, 1881, Garfield was shot by an attorney who had been denied a government post. He died two months later - the second President killed by an assassin's bullet.
Twentieth President
Republican
Chester A. Arthur 1881 - 1885
Born: 1830, Fairfield, VT
Died: 1886
Son of an Irish Baptist preacher, Chester Arthur practiced law in New York, winning two key civil rights cases for blacks, and was appointed Quartermaster General of New York when the Civil War broke out. In 1871, President Grant made him collector of the Port of New York, where he dispensed patronage in league with Senator Roscoe Conkling and the Stalwart Republicans. He was removed by President Hayes in 1878 as part of an effort to reform the Customs House.
Arthur was selected as the 1880 Vice-Presidential candidate to placate the Stalwart Republicans. When he entered in the White House upon Garfield's violent death, many were worried about his close association with supporters of the spoils system. But President Arthur confounded his critics by urging passage of the Pendleton Government Jobs Act, which reformed the civil service. His actions so antagonized the Stalwarts that they refused to back him for a second term. Arthur had contracted a fatal kidney disease soon after taking office; he suffered in secret during his Presidency, and died in 1886.
Twenty-First President
Republican
Died: 1886
Son of an Irish Baptist preacher, Chester Arthur practiced law in New York, winning two key civil rights cases for blacks, and was appointed Quartermaster General of New York when the Civil War broke out. In 1871, President Grant made him collector of the Port of New York, where he dispensed patronage in league with Senator Roscoe Conkling and the Stalwart Republicans. He was removed by President Hayes in 1878 as part of an effort to reform the Customs House.
Arthur was selected as the 1880 Vice-Presidential candidate to placate the Stalwart Republicans. When he entered in the White House upon Garfield's violent death, many were worried about his close association with supporters of the spoils system. But President Arthur confounded his critics by urging passage of the Pendleton Government Jobs Act, which reformed the civil service. His actions so antagonized the Stalwarts that they refused to back him for a second term. Arthur had contracted a fatal kidney disease soon after taking office; he suffered in secret during his Presidency, and died in 1886.
Twenty-First President
Republican
Grover Cleveland 1885 - 1889 & 1893 - 1897
Born: 1837, Caldwell, NJ
Died: 1908
A prominent lawyer in Buffalo, New York, Grover Cleveland was elected Mayor of that city in 1881. He earned a reputation for honesty and fairness, and went on to become state Governor. Cleveland's opposition to political corruption, at a time when the Republicans were still strongly associated with the spoils system, helped to win him the Democratic Presidential nomination in 1884. He was elected despite revelations that the unmarried Cleveland was supporting an illegitimate son.
Soon after his inauguration, Cleveland became the first President to wed in the White House. In his first term, he signed the Interstate Commerce Act, improved the civil service, denied fraudulent pension claims, set aside illegal land grants to the railroads, and tried to lower the national tariff. The tariff issue dominated the 1888 Presidential campaign and while Cleveland won the popular vote, Benjamin Harrison received the electoral victory.
Cleveland returned to the White House in 1892, after defeating Harrison in a rematch. Faced with a nationwide depression, Cleveland focused on monetary policy rather than on direct assistance to the needy. This plus the hard line he took against striking rail workers, caused his party to back Williams Jennings Bryan in 1896.
Twenty-Second & Twenty-Fourth President
Democrat
Died: 1908
A prominent lawyer in Buffalo, New York, Grover Cleveland was elected Mayor of that city in 1881. He earned a reputation for honesty and fairness, and went on to become state Governor. Cleveland's opposition to political corruption, at a time when the Republicans were still strongly associated with the spoils system, helped to win him the Democratic Presidential nomination in 1884. He was elected despite revelations that the unmarried Cleveland was supporting an illegitimate son.
Soon after his inauguration, Cleveland became the first President to wed in the White House. In his first term, he signed the Interstate Commerce Act, improved the civil service, denied fraudulent pension claims, set aside illegal land grants to the railroads, and tried to lower the national tariff. The tariff issue dominated the 1888 Presidential campaign and while Cleveland won the popular vote, Benjamin Harrison received the electoral victory.
Cleveland returned to the White House in 1892, after defeating Harrison in a rematch. Faced with a nationwide depression, Cleveland focused on monetary policy rather than on direct assistance to the needy. This plus the hard line he took against striking rail workers, caused his party to back Williams Jennings Bryan in 1896.
Twenty-Second & Twenty-Fourth President
Democrat
Monday, November 19, 2007
Benjamin Harrison 1889-1893
Born: 1833, North Bend, OH
Died: 1901
The grandson of President William Henry ("Tippecanoe") Harrison, Benjamin Harrison was a conservative Indiana lawyer and a staunch advocate (some said pawn) of big business. He served as a colonel in the Union Army during the Civil War and was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1881, where he supported a high tariff. Chosen as the Republican Presidential candidate in 1888, Harrison received substantial campaign contributions from American manufacturers who favored his protectionist stance.
President Harrison sponsored the first Pan-American Congress. In domestic affairs, he supported the McKinley Tariff Act, which increased import duties; a new Pension Act and other appropriation bills; the Sherman Anti-Trust Act, which regulated monopolies; and the Silver Purchase Act, which authorized the minting of additional silver coins. In all, Congress spent over $1 billion in a single session, setting a peacetime record. While manufacturers benefited from high tariffs under Harrison, they did not pass the benefits on to labor. Faced with mounting resentment among industrial workers, and a depressed farm economy, Harrison lost his big for a second term to former President Grover Cleveland -- the same man he had defeated four years before.
Twenty-Third President
Republican
Died: 1901
The grandson of President William Henry ("Tippecanoe") Harrison, Benjamin Harrison was a conservative Indiana lawyer and a staunch advocate (some said pawn) of big business. He served as a colonel in the Union Army during the Civil War and was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1881, where he supported a high tariff. Chosen as the Republican Presidential candidate in 1888, Harrison received substantial campaign contributions from American manufacturers who favored his protectionist stance.
President Harrison sponsored the first Pan-American Congress. In domestic affairs, he supported the McKinley Tariff Act, which increased import duties; a new Pension Act and other appropriation bills; the Sherman Anti-Trust Act, which regulated monopolies; and the Silver Purchase Act, which authorized the minting of additional silver coins. In all, Congress spent over $1 billion in a single session, setting a peacetime record. While manufacturers benefited from high tariffs under Harrison, they did not pass the benefits on to labor. Faced with mounting resentment among industrial workers, and a depressed farm economy, Harrison lost his big for a second term to former President Grover Cleveland -- the same man he had defeated four years before.
Twenty-Third President
Republican
William McKinley 1897-1901
Born: 1843, Niles, OH
Died: 1901
William McKinley was a peace-loving man, whose very docility placed America in the hands of jingoists and big-business interests. A major in the Civil War, McKinley became a lawyer and was elected to Congress at 34. He served 14 years, sponsoring the protectionist McKinley Tariff Act of 1890. Supported by wealthy businessmen, he was twice elected Governor of Ohio and then chosen as the 1896 Republican Presidential candidate.
From his "front porch" in Ohio, McKinley spoke of "a full dinner pail." He supported a high tariff and the gold standard. His opponent, fiery Nebraska populist Williams Jennings Bryan, appealed to farmers and the less fortunate, advocating "free silver" to increase the money supply. Aided by an economic upturn, McKinley won. Congress increased the tariff in 1897 and adopted the gold standard in 1900. The Spanish-American War, ignited by the sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor, ended in swift victory for America with territorial gains in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. McKinley paved the way for an "open door" trade policy with China, and sponsored annexation of the Hawaiian Territory in 1898. Easily re-elected in 1900, he was shot by an anarchist the following year and died eight days later.
Twenty-Fifth President
Republican
Died: 1901
William McKinley was a peace-loving man, whose very docility placed America in the hands of jingoists and big-business interests. A major in the Civil War, McKinley became a lawyer and was elected to Congress at 34. He served 14 years, sponsoring the protectionist McKinley Tariff Act of 1890. Supported by wealthy businessmen, he was twice elected Governor of Ohio and then chosen as the 1896 Republican Presidential candidate.
From his "front porch" in Ohio, McKinley spoke of "a full dinner pail." He supported a high tariff and the gold standard. His opponent, fiery Nebraska populist Williams Jennings Bryan, appealed to farmers and the less fortunate, advocating "free silver" to increase the money supply. Aided by an economic upturn, McKinley won. Congress increased the tariff in 1897 and adopted the gold standard in 1900. The Spanish-American War, ignited by the sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor, ended in swift victory for America with territorial gains in Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. McKinley paved the way for an "open door" trade policy with China, and sponsored annexation of the Hawaiian Territory in 1898. Easily re-elected in 1900, he was shot by an anarchist the following year and died eight days later.
Twenty-Fifth President
Republican
Theodore Roosevelt 1901-1909
Born: 1858, New York, NY
Died: 1919
The son of a wealthy banker, "Teddy" Roosevelt was a sickly youth who overcame his frailty through exercise and sheer grit. After graduating from Harvard he entered politics as a Republican reformer, but when his wife and mother both died on the same day, he temporarily left public life to become a rancher in the Dakota Territory. He remarried in 1886 and went to work on the Civil Service Commission, then became New York's Police Commissioner. Appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy by President McKinley, Teddy led the Rough Rider Regiment in Cuba during the Spanish American War. Elected New York Governor in 1898, he was McKinley's running mate in 1900.
Upon McKinley's assassination, the progressive new President tackled the industrial monopolies, earning the label "trust-buster." A passionate defender of the wilderness, he expanded the National Parks. In foreign policy he said, "speak softly and carry a big stick," and he helped create the Panama Canal. The nation liked his Square Deal and elected him in a landslide in 1904. In 1906 he won the Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Russo-Japanese War. He retired in 1908, but resurfaced in 1912 to head the Bull Moose ticket. Although he lost, Teddy showed his usual flair. Shot in the chest while campaigning, he delivered his hour-long speech before going to the hospital.
Twenty-Sixth President
Republican
Died: 1919
The son of a wealthy banker, "Teddy" Roosevelt was a sickly youth who overcame his frailty through exercise and sheer grit. After graduating from Harvard he entered politics as a Republican reformer, but when his wife and mother both died on the same day, he temporarily left public life to become a rancher in the Dakota Territory. He remarried in 1886 and went to work on the Civil Service Commission, then became New York's Police Commissioner. Appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy by President McKinley, Teddy led the Rough Rider Regiment in Cuba during the Spanish American War. Elected New York Governor in 1898, he was McKinley's running mate in 1900.
Upon McKinley's assassination, the progressive new President tackled the industrial monopolies, earning the label "trust-buster." A passionate defender of the wilderness, he expanded the National Parks. In foreign policy he said, "speak softly and carry a big stick," and he helped create the Panama Canal. The nation liked his Square Deal and elected him in a landslide in 1904. In 1906 he won the Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Russo-Japanese War. He retired in 1908, but resurfaced in 1912 to head the Bull Moose ticket. Although he lost, Teddy showed his usual flair. Shot in the chest while campaigning, he delivered his hour-long speech before going to the hospital.
Twenty-Sixth President
Republican
William H. Taft 1909-1913
Born: 1857, Cincinnati, OH
Died: 1930
William Howard Taft, the son of a distinguished judge, became a lawyer after graduating from Yale, his goal one day to sit on the Supreme Court. He was appointed a federal judge at 34, but left the law for politics when President McKinley named him Governor of the Philippines. Taft then served as Secretary of War under President Roosevelt. With Teddy's support, "Big Bill" Taft won the Republican Presidential nomination in 1908.
Roosevelt quickly discovered that although he could influence the affable Taft, he could not mold him in his own image. While Roosevelt had been a dynamic, vigorous and visible President, his protege was more restrained. Taft admitted the job intimidated him. Even so, he introduced budgetary controls, an eight-hour work day for government employees, and a campaign-spending disclosure bill. His Administration prosecuted numerous companies under the anti-trust laws. All the while, Taft drew mounting criticism from Roosevelt, who branded Taft an ineffectual puppet of big business. Teddy bolted from the Republican Party in 1912 to oppose Taft on the Bull Moose ticket, splitting the Republican vote. Democrat Woodrow Wilson won easily, and Taft was released from the office he loathed. In 1921, President Harding appointed him Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Years later Taft commented, "I don't remember that I ever was President."
Twenty-Seventh President
Republican
Died: 1930
William Howard Taft, the son of a distinguished judge, became a lawyer after graduating from Yale, his goal one day to sit on the Supreme Court. He was appointed a federal judge at 34, but left the law for politics when President McKinley named him Governor of the Philippines. Taft then served as Secretary of War under President Roosevelt. With Teddy's support, "Big Bill" Taft won the Republican Presidential nomination in 1908.
Roosevelt quickly discovered that although he could influence the affable Taft, he could not mold him in his own image. While Roosevelt had been a dynamic, vigorous and visible President, his protege was more restrained. Taft admitted the job intimidated him. Even so, he introduced budgetary controls, an eight-hour work day for government employees, and a campaign-spending disclosure bill. His Administration prosecuted numerous companies under the anti-trust laws. All the while, Taft drew mounting criticism from Roosevelt, who branded Taft an ineffectual puppet of big business. Teddy bolted from the Republican Party in 1912 to oppose Taft on the Bull Moose ticket, splitting the Republican vote. Democrat Woodrow Wilson won easily, and Taft was released from the office he loathed. In 1921, President Harding appointed him Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Years later Taft commented, "I don't remember that I ever was President."
Twenty-Seventh President
Republican
Woodrow Wilson 1913-1921
Born: 1856, Staunton, VA
Died: 1924
The son of a Presbyterian minister, Woodrow Wilson was a progressive reformer and idealist. He was also remote and rigid -- righteous to a fault. After attending Princeton and practicing law briefly, he returned to his alma mater as a professor of political science, becoming president of the University in 1902. In 1910, Wilson was elected Governor of New Jersey and in 1912 he became the Democrat's Presidential nominee on the 46th ballot.
Backed by a Democratic majority in Congress, President Wilson pushed through numerous reforms, including a graduated income tax, a lower tariff, laws restricting child labor, and the Federal Reserve Act. In 1916 the war in Europe was the major issue of the day -- Wilson opposed intervention and narrowly won re-election. Soon after, Germany's mounting aggression against the U.S. forced the President to declare war, to "make the world safe for democracy."
In his "Fourteen Points" peace plan, Wilson called for a "League of Nations" after the Allied victory. But Congress, by then Republican and isolationist, failed to ratify the League's Treaty (of Versailles). Wilson suffered a stroke while on a national tour promoting the League, which had become his passion. In 1920 he won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Twenty-Eighth President
Democrat
Died: 1924
The son of a Presbyterian minister, Woodrow Wilson was a progressive reformer and idealist. He was also remote and rigid -- righteous to a fault. After attending Princeton and practicing law briefly, he returned to his alma mater as a professor of political science, becoming president of the University in 1902. In 1910, Wilson was elected Governor of New Jersey and in 1912 he became the Democrat's Presidential nominee on the 46th ballot.
Backed by a Democratic majority in Congress, President Wilson pushed through numerous reforms, including a graduated income tax, a lower tariff, laws restricting child labor, and the Federal Reserve Act. In 1916 the war in Europe was the major issue of the day -- Wilson opposed intervention and narrowly won re-election. Soon after, Germany's mounting aggression against the U.S. forced the President to declare war, to "make the world safe for democracy."
In his "Fourteen Points" peace plan, Wilson called for a "League of Nations" after the Allied victory. But Congress, by then Republican and isolationist, failed to ratify the League's Treaty (of Versailles). Wilson suffered a stroke while on a national tour promoting the League, which had become his passion. In 1920 he won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Twenty-Eighth President
Democrat
Warren G. Harding 1921-1923
Born: 1865, Marion, OH
Died: 1923
Warren Harding gained popularity and political savvy as the publisher of an Ohio newspaper. In 1914, after serving as a State Senator and Lieutenant Governor, he was elected to the U.S. Senate. A deadlocked Republican nominating convention finally settled on the likeable and attractive Harding as its Presidential candidate in 1920. He promised a "return to normalcy" in the aftermath of World War I, and his champion, Harry Daugherty, proclaimed that indeed the candidate "looked like a President." He won 60 percent of the popular vote.
President Harding followed the Congressional Republicans' lead, approving bills that cut taxes, raised tariffs, ended wartime controls and restricted immigration. In the two years following his election, America seemed to be on the road to prosperity. Then, in 1923, during a campaign visit to San Francisco, Harding died suddenly of a heart attack and the nation was stunned by revelations of widespread corruption in his Administration. Several Harding appointees had been taking bribes and stealing millions in public funds. It was now all too evident that the President had been in earnest when he remarked that his enemies were no bother, but his friends kept him awake at night.
Twenty-Ninth President
Republican
Died: 1923
Warren Harding gained popularity and political savvy as the publisher of an Ohio newspaper. In 1914, after serving as a State Senator and Lieutenant Governor, he was elected to the U.S. Senate. A deadlocked Republican nominating convention finally settled on the likeable and attractive Harding as its Presidential candidate in 1920. He promised a "return to normalcy" in the aftermath of World War I, and his champion, Harry Daugherty, proclaimed that indeed the candidate "looked like a President." He won 60 percent of the popular vote.
President Harding followed the Congressional Republicans' lead, approving bills that cut taxes, raised tariffs, ended wartime controls and restricted immigration. In the two years following his election, America seemed to be on the road to prosperity. Then, in 1923, during a campaign visit to San Francisco, Harding died suddenly of a heart attack and the nation was stunned by revelations of widespread corruption in his Administration. Several Harding appointees had been taking bribes and stealing millions in public funds. It was now all too evident that the President had been in earnest when he remarked that his enemies were no bother, but his friends kept him awake at night.
Twenty-Ninth President
Republican
Calvin Coolidge 1923-1929
Born: 1872, Plymouth, VT
Died: 1933
John Calvin Coolidge, the son of a Vermont storekeeper, earned a law degree and moved to Northampton, Massachusetts, where a casual interest in politics soon turned into a career. He was serving as Governor when Harding asked him to be his running mate in 1920. Harding died two years later and Coolidge's father, a notary public, swore him in as President.
"Silent Cal" had a reputation for honesty that served him well when the Harding scandals came to light. He moved swiftly to restore confidence in the White House, and otherwise followed his conviction that "the business of America is business." The country was enjoying high productivity and low unemployment when he faced the electorate in 1924, with the slogan "Keep cool with Coolidge." He won handily, but the dour and frugal tee-totaler from New England was utterly out of step with the Jazz Age. As bootlegging, corruption, and stock-market speculating became rampant, Coolidge, who preferred to lead by example, tended to administrative affairs and quietly trimmed $2 billion from the national debt. He did not seek re-election. On leaving office Coolidge said, "one of the most important accomplishments of my Administration has been minding my own business."
Thirtieth President
Republican
Died: 1933
John Calvin Coolidge, the son of a Vermont storekeeper, earned a law degree and moved to Northampton, Massachusetts, where a casual interest in politics soon turned into a career. He was serving as Governor when Harding asked him to be his running mate in 1920. Harding died two years later and Coolidge's father, a notary public, swore him in as President.
"Silent Cal" had a reputation for honesty that served him well when the Harding scandals came to light. He moved swiftly to restore confidence in the White House, and otherwise followed his conviction that "the business of America is business." The country was enjoying high productivity and low unemployment when he faced the electorate in 1924, with the slogan "Keep cool with Coolidge." He won handily, but the dour and frugal tee-totaler from New England was utterly out of step with the Jazz Age. As bootlegging, corruption, and stock-market speculating became rampant, Coolidge, who preferred to lead by example, tended to administrative affairs and quietly trimmed $2 billion from the national debt. He did not seek re-election. On leaving office Coolidge said, "one of the most important accomplishments of my Administration has been minding my own business."
Thirtieth President
Republican
Herbert Hoover 1929-1933
Born: 1874, West Branch, IA
Died: 1964
An austere childhood demanded self-reliance and discipline of Herbert Hoover, values he championed throughout his life. A son of Iowa Quakers, he was orphaned at nine, joined relatives in Oregon, and eventually put himself through Stanford University, becoming a mining engineer. He earned a fortune working around the world, and also earned a reputation as a humanitarian for directing American relief efforts in Europe during World War I. After serving as Commerce Secretary under Harding and Coolidge, he became the 1928 Republican Presidential nominee. Aided by the nation's prosperity, plus anti-Catholic sentiment against Democrat Al Smith, Hoover swept to victory.
On October 29, 1929, "Black Tuesday," the stock-market crash plunged thousands of businesses and individuals into bankruptcy, ushering in the most protracted economic downturn in American history, the Great Depression. Hoover cut taxes, increased public works and created the Reconstruction Finance Corporation to make government loans. But he drew the line at direct loans to individuals, even though 12 million Americans were unemployed. Shanty towns of homeless families became known as "Hoovervilles," and the beleaguered President was turned out of office in the 1932 election. Fifteen years later, President Truman appointed him to head the European food program after World War II.
Thirty-First President
Republican
Died: 1964
An austere childhood demanded self-reliance and discipline of Herbert Hoover, values he championed throughout his life. A son of Iowa Quakers, he was orphaned at nine, joined relatives in Oregon, and eventually put himself through Stanford University, becoming a mining engineer. He earned a fortune working around the world, and also earned a reputation as a humanitarian for directing American relief efforts in Europe during World War I. After serving as Commerce Secretary under Harding and Coolidge, he became the 1928 Republican Presidential nominee. Aided by the nation's prosperity, plus anti-Catholic sentiment against Democrat Al Smith, Hoover swept to victory.
On October 29, 1929, "Black Tuesday," the stock-market crash plunged thousands of businesses and individuals into bankruptcy, ushering in the most protracted economic downturn in American history, the Great Depression. Hoover cut taxes, increased public works and created the Reconstruction Finance Corporation to make government loans. But he drew the line at direct loans to individuals, even though 12 million Americans were unemployed. Shanty towns of homeless families became known as "Hoovervilles," and the beleaguered President was turned out of office in the 1932 election. Fifteen years later, President Truman appointed him to head the European food program after World War II.
Thirty-First President
Republican
Franklin D. Roosevelt 1933-1945
Born: 1882, Hyde Park, NY
Died: 1945
Franklin Delano Roosevelt led America through some of its darkest hours. A cousin and admirer of Teddy Roosevelt, FDR became a New York State Senator, then Assistant Secretary of the Navy and finally the Democrats' unsuccessful Vice-Presidential candidate in 1920. In 1921 he was crippled by polio, but after intensive therapy was able to walk with crutches. His vigor undimmed, he became New York Governor in 1928, then President.
Inaugurated at the height of the Depression, FDR inspired Americans with the words, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." He launched the New Deal, instituting social security and unemployment benefits. His public works projects included the Tennessee Valley Authority, and the Works Progress Administration. His mobility hampered, he reached millions by radio in his "fireside chats" while his wife, Eleanor, tirelessly toured the country. FDR was re-elected in 1936, 1940 and 1944. In 1940, he responded to Hitler's aggression in Europe by sending the British 50 destroyers in exchange for military bases, followed by massive "Lend-Lease" aid. On December 7, 1941, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor and America entered World War II. With Stalin and Churchill, Roosevelt laid the groundwork for the post-war world, and the creation of the United Nations. But he did not live to see it, dying of a cerebral hemorrhage on April 12, 1945.
Thirty-Second President
Democrat
Died: 1945
Franklin Delano Roosevelt led America through some of its darkest hours. A cousin and admirer of Teddy Roosevelt, FDR became a New York State Senator, then Assistant Secretary of the Navy and finally the Democrats' unsuccessful Vice-Presidential candidate in 1920. In 1921 he was crippled by polio, but after intensive therapy was able to walk with crutches. His vigor undimmed, he became New York Governor in 1928, then President.
Inaugurated at the height of the Depression, FDR inspired Americans with the words, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." He launched the New Deal, instituting social security and unemployment benefits. His public works projects included the Tennessee Valley Authority, and the Works Progress Administration. His mobility hampered, he reached millions by radio in his "fireside chats" while his wife, Eleanor, tirelessly toured the country. FDR was re-elected in 1936, 1940 and 1944. In 1940, he responded to Hitler's aggression in Europe by sending the British 50 destroyers in exchange for military bases, followed by massive "Lend-Lease" aid. On December 7, 1941, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor and America entered World War II. With Stalin and Churchill, Roosevelt laid the groundwork for the post-war world, and the creation of the United Nations. But he did not live to see it, dying of a cerebral hemorrhage on April 12, 1945.
Thirty-Second President
Democrat
Harry S. Truman 1945-1953
Born: 1884, Lamar, MO
Died: 1972
Missourian Harry Truman was a gutsy and straight-talking politician who suffered chiefly from having to fill the shoes of a giant, FDR. Truman ran the family farm until World War I sent him to the French front. After the war he married and launched an unsuccessful clothing store. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1934, he gained national recognition through his unflinching investigation of war contracts. Chosen as FDR's running mate in 1944, Truman became President when Roosevelt died four months after the election.
Noted for his candor and wit, Truman originated the line, "The buck stops here." Indeed, President Truman faced up to difficult decisions. When Japan vowed to continue fighting after Germany surrendered, he authorized the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, bringing the war to an end. In the Cold War that followed, he stood firm against the Soviets. In Greece, Turkey, West Berlin and South Korea, Truman carried out a policy of "containment." In domestic affairs, his Fair Deal proposals included civil rights legislation and a national health program. He won a surprise victory over Thomas Dewey in the 1948 election, living up to his campaign cheer, "Give 'em hell, Harry!" He retired at the end of his term.
Thirty-Third President
Democrat
Died: 1972
Missourian Harry Truman was a gutsy and straight-talking politician who suffered chiefly from having to fill the shoes of a giant, FDR. Truman ran the family farm until World War I sent him to the French front. After the war he married and launched an unsuccessful clothing store. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1934, he gained national recognition through his unflinching investigation of war contracts. Chosen as FDR's running mate in 1944, Truman became President when Roosevelt died four months after the election.
Noted for his candor and wit, Truman originated the line, "The buck stops here." Indeed, President Truman faced up to difficult decisions. When Japan vowed to continue fighting after Germany surrendered, he authorized the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, bringing the war to an end. In the Cold War that followed, he stood firm against the Soviets. In Greece, Turkey, West Berlin and South Korea, Truman carried out a policy of "containment." In domestic affairs, his Fair Deal proposals included civil rights legislation and a national health program. He won a surprise victory over Thomas Dewey in the 1948 election, living up to his campaign cheer, "Give 'em hell, Harry!" He retired at the end of his term.
Thirty-Third President
Democrat
Dwight D. Eisenhower 1953-1961
Born: 1890, Denison, TX
Died: 1969
Dwight Eisenhower was a fine athlete at West Point who went on to a distinguished military career. When America entered World War II, he joined General George Marshall's staff, commanding the 1942 Allied invasion of North Africa. Appointed Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, he orchestrated the 1944 D-Day landings in France. Returning a national hero, "Ike" became President of Columbia University and then Supreme Commander of NATO. Both parties sought him as a Presidential candidate in 1948, but he refused. In 1952 he headed the Republican ticket, and twice led it to victory.
When Ike took office, America was in the grip of the Cold War. In South Korea, U.S. forces were fighting a communist invasion from the North. At home, Senator McCarthy had incited anti-communist hysteria with witch hunts and blacklists (before his 1954 censure by the Senate). Ike reduced tensions with the Soviets, negotiated a truce in Korea, proposed a nuclear test ban, and pressured America's allies to withdraw from the Suez Canal in 1956. He also improved the nation's highways, supported the space program, and sent troops into Little Rock to enforce court-ordered school desegregation. When he left office the former soldier warned against the acquisition of unwarranted influence by "the military-industrial complex."
Thirty-Fourth President
Republican
Died: 1969
Dwight Eisenhower was a fine athlete at West Point who went on to a distinguished military career. When America entered World War II, he joined General George Marshall's staff, commanding the 1942 Allied invasion of North Africa. Appointed Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, he orchestrated the 1944 D-Day landings in France. Returning a national hero, "Ike" became President of Columbia University and then Supreme Commander of NATO. Both parties sought him as a Presidential candidate in 1948, but he refused. In 1952 he headed the Republican ticket, and twice led it to victory.
When Ike took office, America was in the grip of the Cold War. In South Korea, U.S. forces were fighting a communist invasion from the North. At home, Senator McCarthy had incited anti-communist hysteria with witch hunts and blacklists (before his 1954 censure by the Senate). Ike reduced tensions with the Soviets, negotiated a truce in Korea, proposed a nuclear test ban, and pressured America's allies to withdraw from the Suez Canal in 1956. He also improved the nation's highways, supported the space program, and sent troops into Little Rock to enforce court-ordered school desegregation. When he left office the former soldier warned against the acquisition of unwarranted influence by "the military-industrial complex."
Thirty-Fourth President
Republican
Friday, November 16, 2007
John F. Kennedy 1961-1963
Born: 1917, Brookline, MA
Died: 1963
John F. Kennedy was blessed with wealth, charm, intelligence and good looks. He was the second child of a Boston millionaire whose driving ambition was to put a son in the White House. After graduating from Harvard, "Jack" joined the Navy. He earned a hero's medal for leading his surviving crew to safety, despite a grave back injury, after the Japanese sunk his PT boat. When his older brother was killed in action, Jack inherited the politician's mantle. Elected to the U.S. House and then the Senate, he lost his bid for the Democratic Vice-Presidential nomination in 1956. In 1960, he led the ticket. Aided by his TV debates and choice of Lyndon Johnson as his running mate, JFK narrowly defeated Richard Nixon -- becoming the nation's first Catholic and youngest elected President.
In 1961 Kennedy supported a failed mission by anti-Castro Cuban exiles at the Bay of Pigs. The next year, the Soviets put nuclear missiles in Cuba, but withdrew them after JFK imposed a naval blockade. Tensions eased with the 1963 nuclear test ban treaty though the "space race" continued. A supporter of the arts, JFK was also mindful of the disadvantaged. He founded the Peace Corps and proposed wide-ranging civil rights legislation though he never saw its enactment. On November 22, 1963, he was shot to death in a Dallas motorcade. The nation watched and mourned as he was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Thirty-Fifth President
Democrat
Died: 1963
John F. Kennedy was blessed with wealth, charm, intelligence and good looks. He was the second child of a Boston millionaire whose driving ambition was to put a son in the White House. After graduating from Harvard, "Jack" joined the Navy. He earned a hero's medal for leading his surviving crew to safety, despite a grave back injury, after the Japanese sunk his PT boat. When his older brother was killed in action, Jack inherited the politician's mantle. Elected to the U.S. House and then the Senate, he lost his bid for the Democratic Vice-Presidential nomination in 1956. In 1960, he led the ticket. Aided by his TV debates and choice of Lyndon Johnson as his running mate, JFK narrowly defeated Richard Nixon -- becoming the nation's first Catholic and youngest elected President.
In 1961 Kennedy supported a failed mission by anti-Castro Cuban exiles at the Bay of Pigs. The next year, the Soviets put nuclear missiles in Cuba, but withdrew them after JFK imposed a naval blockade. Tensions eased with the 1963 nuclear test ban treaty though the "space race" continued. A supporter of the arts, JFK was also mindful of the disadvantaged. He founded the Peace Corps and proposed wide-ranging civil rights legislation though he never saw its enactment. On November 22, 1963, he was shot to death in a Dallas motorcade. The nation watched and mourned as he was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Thirty-Fifth President
Democrat
Lyndon B. Johnson 1963-1969
Born: 1908, near Stonewall, TX
Died: 1973
Ever-mindful of his own impoverished childhood, Lyndon Johnson devoted himself to bringing dignity and justice to the poor. After teaching briefly he found his calling in politics. In 1937, the young Texan was elected to Congress, where he seized every opportunity to advance his programs and political future. After 12 years in the House, interrupted only be naval service during World War II, he moved to the Senate and was Majority Leader in 1960 when Kennedy picked him for his running mate. Three years later, Kennedy's assassination thrust LBJ into the White House.
President Johnson pressed on with the Kennedy agenda, including passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and won the 1964 election with a record 61% of the vote. LBJ then introduced his own "Great Society" program. Declaring a "war on poverty," he called for urban renewal, aid to education, and Medicare for the elderly. But it was the war in Vietnam that came to dominate his Presidency. Though never declared, the war to save South Vietnam from the communist North escalated steadily under LBJ, costing thousands of American lives and causing bitter protest at home. His popularity shattered, LBJ refused to seek re-election. In his last year in office, America was rocked by the assassinations of Martin Luther King and Robert F. Kennedy, and by urban race riots.
Thirty-Sixth President
Democrat
Died: 1973
Ever-mindful of his own impoverished childhood, Lyndon Johnson devoted himself to bringing dignity and justice to the poor. After teaching briefly he found his calling in politics. In 1937, the young Texan was elected to Congress, where he seized every opportunity to advance his programs and political future. After 12 years in the House, interrupted only be naval service during World War II, he moved to the Senate and was Majority Leader in 1960 when Kennedy picked him for his running mate. Three years later, Kennedy's assassination thrust LBJ into the White House.
President Johnson pressed on with the Kennedy agenda, including passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and won the 1964 election with a record 61% of the vote. LBJ then introduced his own "Great Society" program. Declaring a "war on poverty," he called for urban renewal, aid to education, and Medicare for the elderly. But it was the war in Vietnam that came to dominate his Presidency. Though never declared, the war to save South Vietnam from the communist North escalated steadily under LBJ, costing thousands of American lives and causing bitter protest at home. His popularity shattered, LBJ refused to seek re-election. In his last year in office, America was rocked by the assassinations of Martin Luther King and Robert F. Kennedy, and by urban race riots.
Thirty-Sixth President
Democrat
Richard M. Nixon 1969-1974
Born: 1913, Yorba Linda, CA
Died: 1994
Reared in poverty, Richard Nixon showed his tenacity early on, working his way through Whittier College and Duke Law School. After naval service in World War II, he returned to California and was elected to the U.S. House and then the Senate. In 1952 Eisenhower picked the 39-year-old Senator to be his Vice-President -- a job Nixon held for eight years. Nixon was narrowly defeated by John F. Kennedy in the 1960 Presidential race, but in 1968 he ran again and won.
As President, Nixon made great strides in foreign affairs. He visited China and the USSR and initiated Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) with the Soviets. In 1973, Nixon signed a peace accord with North Vietnam, finally extricating the nation from a conflict that had cost 58,000 American lives. But these achievements were overshadowed by a constitutional crisis at home. In June, 1972, a break-in was discovered at the Democrats' National Committee headquarters in the Watergate building. The President denied knowledge of the incident, and went on to a landslide re-election victory in November. Slowly, however, evidence was amassed that implicated the White House. Senior Administration officials were caught in a cover-up that unraveled under mounting investigation. Threatened with impeachment, President Nixon resigned in 1974.
Thirty-Seventh President
Republican
Died: 1994
Reared in poverty, Richard Nixon showed his tenacity early on, working his way through Whittier College and Duke Law School. After naval service in World War II, he returned to California and was elected to the U.S. House and then the Senate. In 1952 Eisenhower picked the 39-year-old Senator to be his Vice-President -- a job Nixon held for eight years. Nixon was narrowly defeated by John F. Kennedy in the 1960 Presidential race, but in 1968 he ran again and won.
As President, Nixon made great strides in foreign affairs. He visited China and the USSR and initiated Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) with the Soviets. In 1973, Nixon signed a peace accord with North Vietnam, finally extricating the nation from a conflict that had cost 58,000 American lives. But these achievements were overshadowed by a constitutional crisis at home. In June, 1972, a break-in was discovered at the Democrats' National Committee headquarters in the Watergate building. The President denied knowledge of the incident, and went on to a landslide re-election victory in November. Slowly, however, evidence was amassed that implicated the White House. Senior Administration officials were caught in a cover-up that unraveled under mounting investigation. Threatened with impeachment, President Nixon resigned in 1974.
Thirty-Seventh President
Republican
Gerald R. Ford 1974-1977
Born: 1913, Omaha, NE
Died: 2006
Gerald Ford was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A talented athlete, Ford attended the University of Michigan on a football scholarship, then earned a law degree at Yale. After naval combat duty in World War II, the likable attorney returned to Grand Rapids. He was elected to Congress in 1948, becoming House Minority Leader in 1965. In 1973, when Nixon's Vice-President, Spiro T. Agnew, was forced to resign over a tax scandal, Nixon picked Ford as the new Vice-President. The following year Nixon resigned over Watergate and Ford became President. shortly thereafter, Ford granted Nixon a "full, free and absolute pardon." He explained his decision as a way to bring the country together and move beyond the turmoil of Watergate. Though few questioned Ford's integrity, many at the time were angered by his action.
President Ford presided over a period of steadily improving relations with the Soviet Union, reaching agreement on limiting nuclear arms. But troubles appeared on other fronts; the last American advisers in Vietnam were forced into a desperate and chaotic evacuation; the Middle East oil crisis created an energy shortage; and at home the fight against inflation led to recession. Ford gained the Republican nomination in 1976 but lost the election to Democrat Jimmy Carter.
Thirty-Eighth President
Republican
Died: 2006
Gerald Ford was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A talented athlete, Ford attended the University of Michigan on a football scholarship, then earned a law degree at Yale. After naval combat duty in World War II, the likable attorney returned to Grand Rapids. He was elected to Congress in 1948, becoming House Minority Leader in 1965. In 1973, when Nixon's Vice-President, Spiro T. Agnew, was forced to resign over a tax scandal, Nixon picked Ford as the new Vice-President. The following year Nixon resigned over Watergate and Ford became President. shortly thereafter, Ford granted Nixon a "full, free and absolute pardon." He explained his decision as a way to bring the country together and move beyond the turmoil of Watergate. Though few questioned Ford's integrity, many at the time were angered by his action.
President Ford presided over a period of steadily improving relations with the Soviet Union, reaching agreement on limiting nuclear arms. But troubles appeared on other fronts; the last American advisers in Vietnam were forced into a desperate and chaotic evacuation; the Middle East oil crisis created an energy shortage; and at home the fight against inflation led to recession. Ford gained the Republican nomination in 1976 but lost the election to Democrat Jimmy Carter.
Thirty-Eighth President
Republican
Jimmy Carter 1977 - 1981
Born: 1924, Plains, GA
A top graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, engineer Jimmy Carter reluctantly left the Navy in order to run his family's peanut business. He entered Georgia politics and was elected Governor in 1970. In 1976, he captured the Democratic Presidential nomination -- a Washington outsider untainted by the insider politics of the Nixon era. Carter's earnest oratory, deep religious faith, and down-to-earth policies impressed a jaded electorate, especially his vow that he would never lie to the American people.
One of Carter's first Presidential acts was to pardon the Vietnam draft dodgers. He decreased the federal budget deficit, deregulated domestic oil prices and formed an Energy Department. He also improved bureaucratic efficiency, and placed many women and minorities in senior government jobs. but Carter never got along with Congress and he was blamed for high interest rates and inflation. In foreign affairs, Carter stressed human rights. He facilitated the historic Camp David Accord between Egypt and Israel, and the Treaty ceding the Panama Canal. But these accomplishments were overshadowed by the Iranian hostage crisis. Carter's inability to secure release of the American hostages, by force or otherwise, frustrated the public, who rejected him in the 1980 election. After leaving office, Carter has remained active in the cause of human rights and world peace.
Thirty-Ninth President
Democrat
A top graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, engineer Jimmy Carter reluctantly left the Navy in order to run his family's peanut business. He entered Georgia politics and was elected Governor in 1970. In 1976, he captured the Democratic Presidential nomination -- a Washington outsider untainted by the insider politics of the Nixon era. Carter's earnest oratory, deep religious faith, and down-to-earth policies impressed a jaded electorate, especially his vow that he would never lie to the American people.
One of Carter's first Presidential acts was to pardon the Vietnam draft dodgers. He decreased the federal budget deficit, deregulated domestic oil prices and formed an Energy Department. He also improved bureaucratic efficiency, and placed many women and minorities in senior government jobs. but Carter never got along with Congress and he was blamed for high interest rates and inflation. In foreign affairs, Carter stressed human rights. He facilitated the historic Camp David Accord between Egypt and Israel, and the Treaty ceding the Panama Canal. But these accomplishments were overshadowed by the Iranian hostage crisis. Carter's inability to secure release of the American hostages, by force or otherwise, frustrated the public, who rejected him in the 1980 election. After leaving office, Carter has remained active in the cause of human rights and world peace.
Thirty-Ninth President
Democrat
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Ronald Reagan 1981-1989
Born: 1911, Tampico, IL
Died: 2004
A champion of individual freedom, Ronald Reagan presented a sharp contrast to his predecessor, Jimmy Carter. While the thrifty and analytical Carter pored over details, Regan was a generalist who preferred to delegate problem-solving. Having worked in broadcasting and feature films, Reagan excelled at communicating his views directly to the people. Hollywood also grounded him in politics. As president of the Screen Actors Guild, he opposed communist influence in the entertainment industry and later switched from a liberal to a conservative philosophy, fiercely opposed to big government.
Governor of California from 1966 to 1974, Reagan won the Republican Presidential nomination in 1980. He trounced Jimmy Carter at the polls, becoming the nation's oldest President. After surviving an early assassination attempt, Reagan deregulated industry and cut taxes and non-military spending, fueling the "go-go" economy of the 1980s. He took a hard line against the Soviets, increasing America's military capability and backing the costly "Star Wars" missile program. But he also nurtured a growing relationship with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. His support for anti-communist rebels in Central America led staff members to become embroiled in the Iran-Contra scandal. But the President, with his great personal charm, remained popular throughout his two terms.
Fortieth President
Republican
Died: 2004
A champion of individual freedom, Ronald Reagan presented a sharp contrast to his predecessor, Jimmy Carter. While the thrifty and analytical Carter pored over details, Regan was a generalist who preferred to delegate problem-solving. Having worked in broadcasting and feature films, Reagan excelled at communicating his views directly to the people. Hollywood also grounded him in politics. As president of the Screen Actors Guild, he opposed communist influence in the entertainment industry and later switched from a liberal to a conservative philosophy, fiercely opposed to big government.
Governor of California from 1966 to 1974, Reagan won the Republican Presidential nomination in 1980. He trounced Jimmy Carter at the polls, becoming the nation's oldest President. After surviving an early assassination attempt, Reagan deregulated industry and cut taxes and non-military spending, fueling the "go-go" economy of the 1980s. He took a hard line against the Soviets, increasing America's military capability and backing the costly "Star Wars" missile program. But he also nurtured a growing relationship with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. His support for anti-communist rebels in Central America led staff members to become embroiled in the Iran-Contra scandal. But the President, with his great personal charm, remained popular throughout his two terms.
Fortieth President
Republican
George H. W. Bush 1989-1993
Born: 1924, Milton, MA
A product of the Eastern establishment, George Bush attended Andover and Yale and served as a Navy pilot in World War II before starting a successful oil business in Texas. Twice elected to Congress, he was U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., then headed the Republican National Committee, the U.S. Liaison Office in Peking, and the CIA. In 1980, he sought the Republican Presidential nomination, but became Ronald Reagan's running mate instead. A loyal and competent Vice-President, Bush won the White House in 1988, promising better education, a cleaner environment and no new taxes.
Bush's Presidency was marked by historic events in world affairs. Emboldened by glasnost and perestroika, Eastern bloc nations renounced communist rule; Germany united; and the Soviet Union disintegrated. The Cold War ended, but other wars began. When Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990, Bush assembled an international coalition to reverse the aggression, culminating in the successful military operation, "Desert Storm." But chaos and brutality reigned elsewhere in the world and nearly every nation battled recession. At home, the sour economy took its toll and, after 12 years of Republican administrations, Americans voted for change.
Forty-First President
Republican
A product of the Eastern establishment, George Bush attended Andover and Yale and served as a Navy pilot in World War II before starting a successful oil business in Texas. Twice elected to Congress, he was U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., then headed the Republican National Committee, the U.S. Liaison Office in Peking, and the CIA. In 1980, he sought the Republican Presidential nomination, but became Ronald Reagan's running mate instead. A loyal and competent Vice-President, Bush won the White House in 1988, promising better education, a cleaner environment and no new taxes.
Bush's Presidency was marked by historic events in world affairs. Emboldened by glasnost and perestroika, Eastern bloc nations renounced communist rule; Germany united; and the Soviet Union disintegrated. The Cold War ended, but other wars began. When Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990, Bush assembled an international coalition to reverse the aggression, culminating in the successful military operation, "Desert Storm." But chaos and brutality reigned elsewhere in the world and nearly every nation battled recession. At home, the sour economy took its toll and, after 12 years of Republican administrations, Americans voted for change.
Forty-First President
Republican
William J. Clinton 1993-2001
Born: 1946, Hope, AR
Born William Jefferson Blythe IV two months after his father died, Bill Clinton later took his stepfather's surname. Raised in Arkansas, Clinton was part of the "baby boom generation" that came of age during the Vietnam war, the civil rights and women's liberation movements. He studied at Georgetown, Oxford and Yale Law -- where he met his wife, Hillary -- then went home and entered politics, eventually serving five terms as Governor. Joining the 1992 Presidential race when incumbent Bush looked unbeatable, Clinton rode an economic downturn to victory in a tight three-way race.
President Clinton won passage of NAFTA and the "Brady Bill," but lost his bid for health care reform. Then in 1994, the Democrats lost their Congressional majority to Republicans who stressed conservative themes. Clinton heard and refocused -- on the deficit, crime and welfare reform. Reelected in 1996, Clinton pushed for peace in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and the Mideast, and for racial healing at home. but he himself became a divisive figure when an investigation by the Special Prosecutor's Office revealed his illicit relationship with a White House intern. Clinton's denial of the impropriety led to his 1998 impeachment by the House, though the Senate failed to convict. In his final year, Clinton increased America's parklands and supported Hillary's winning Senate run (D.N.Y.)
Forty-Second President
Democrat
Born William Jefferson Blythe IV two months after his father died, Bill Clinton later took his stepfather's surname. Raised in Arkansas, Clinton was part of the "baby boom generation" that came of age during the Vietnam war, the civil rights and women's liberation movements. He studied at Georgetown, Oxford and Yale Law -- where he met his wife, Hillary -- then went home and entered politics, eventually serving five terms as Governor. Joining the 1992 Presidential race when incumbent Bush looked unbeatable, Clinton rode an economic downturn to victory in a tight three-way race.
President Clinton won passage of NAFTA and the "Brady Bill," but lost his bid for health care reform. Then in 1994, the Democrats lost their Congressional majority to Republicans who stressed conservative themes. Clinton heard and refocused -- on the deficit, crime and welfare reform. Reelected in 1996, Clinton pushed for peace in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and the Mideast, and for racial healing at home. but he himself became a divisive figure when an investigation by the Special Prosecutor's Office revealed his illicit relationship with a White House intern. Clinton's denial of the impropriety led to his 1998 impeachment by the House, though the Senate failed to convict. In his final year, Clinton increased America's parklands and supported Hillary's winning Senate run (D.N.Y.)
Forty-Second President
Democrat
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
George W. Bush 2001 to present
Born: 1946, New Haven CT
George W. Bush is the second President, after John Quincy Adams, to follow his father to the White House. The first child of 41st President George H.W. Bush, "George W" grew up in Texas, then went to Andover and Yale before earning a Harvard MBA. Returning home to the oil business, he married teacher Laura Welch, and lost a 1978 race for Congress. In 1988, he joined his father's Presidential campaign. In 1989, the lifelong baseball fan formed a group to buy the Texas Rangers and became the team's managing partner. After his father's 1992 loss to Bill Clinton, George W gave politics another try, twice winning the Texas Governorship. There, he championed crime and tax reduction and education and tort reform. In 2000, he defeated Democrat Al Gore in one of the closest and most contested elections in history-one which took five weeks and a Supreme Court ruling to sort out.
The partisan rancor that followed the 2000 election was erased, temporarily, by the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Galvanized by the event, George W declared a "war on terror." He sent troops to destroy their operating base in Afghanistan, stepped up domestic law enforcement, and in 2003, invaded Iraq. Though U.S. forces quickly ousted Saddam Hussein, they've labored to create peace and order. The war became a key issue in the 2004 election, when George W narrowly defeated Democrat John Kerry.
Forty-Third President
Republican
George W. Bush is the second President, after John Quincy Adams, to follow his father to the White House. The first child of 41st President George H.W. Bush, "George W" grew up in Texas, then went to Andover and Yale before earning a Harvard MBA. Returning home to the oil business, he married teacher Laura Welch, and lost a 1978 race for Congress. In 1988, he joined his father's Presidential campaign. In 1989, the lifelong baseball fan formed a group to buy the Texas Rangers and became the team's managing partner. After his father's 1992 loss to Bill Clinton, George W gave politics another try, twice winning the Texas Governorship. There, he championed crime and tax reduction and education and tort reform. In 2000, he defeated Democrat Al Gore in one of the closest and most contested elections in history-one which took five weeks and a Supreme Court ruling to sort out.
The partisan rancor that followed the 2000 election was erased, temporarily, by the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Galvanized by the event, George W declared a "war on terror." He sent troops to destroy their operating base in Afghanistan, stepped up domestic law enforcement, and in 2003, invaded Iraq. Though U.S. forces quickly ousted Saddam Hussein, they've labored to create peace and order. The war became a key issue in the 2004 election, when George W narrowly defeated Democrat John Kerry.
Forty-Third President
Republican
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