Appendix
1. George washington. February 22, 1732–December 14, 1799. President 1789–1797. Nicknames and honorifics: “The Father of the Country.” Son of a Virginia plantation owner who joined colonial militia as land surveyor, then served as a British officer in French-and-Indian War (displaying average military talent). Married super-rich young widow, Martha Custis. Led Continental Army in Revolution, won final victory at Yorktown. In 1787 presided over Constitutional Convention; later elected first president. Asserted government’s authority by suppressing Whiskey Rebellion, set precedent of serving only two terms, warned against political parties and foreign alliances in Farewell Address. Quote: “I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not hereafter be drawn into precedent.” Trivia: only Founding Father to free his slaves.
2. John Adams. October 30, 1735–July 4, 1826. President 1797–1801. Nicknames and honorifics: “Atlas of Independence, Atlas of Liberty, Duke of Braintree, His Rotundity, Colossus of Debate, Father of the Navy, Old Sink or Swim, Bonny Johnny, King John the Second.” New England lawyer who joined the Revolution because of warrantless searches by British. As first vice-president, founded the Federalist Party with Alexander Hamilton, advocating strong central government, but as president rejected Hamilton’s plans for a large army. In 1800 divided Federalists lost to Thomas Jefferson’s Democratic-Republicans. But Chief Justice John Marshall achieved Adams’ vision by establishing a strong Supreme Court. Quote: “The only maxim of a free government ought to be to trust no man living with power to endanger the public liberty.” Trivia: Adams and his family got lost in the woods moving into the new White House.
3. Thomas Jefferson. April 13, 1743–July 4, 1826. President 1801–1809. Nicknames and honorifics: “Man of the People, Sage of Monticello, Long Tom, Mad Tom, The Pen of the Revolution, Apostle of Democracy.” Virginia plantation owner, lawyer, architect, inventor, and statesman, in June of 1776 wrote the Declaration of Independence. Strongly supported the Bill of Rights in 1789 (particularly free religion). Fearing Federalist plans for central government, founded the Democratic-Republicans with James Madison, barely won the election of 1800 after bitter dispute with former friend Aaron Burr. Established West Point, beat the Barbary Pirates, and doubled the size of the United States with the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. Quote: “As our enemies have found we can reason like men, so now let us show them we can fight like men also.” Trivia: writing his own epitaph, Jefferson neglected to mention that he served as president.
4. James Madison. March 16, 1751–June 28, 1836. President 1809–1817. Nicknames and honorifics: “Father of the Constitution, Father of the Bill of Rights, Jemmy, Little Jemmy, Sage of Montpelier, His Little Majesty.” Virginia lawyer, drafted the Constitution in 1787, based on his model of three branches of government balanced against each other. Also wrote the Bill of Rights to reassure anti-Federalists and co-authored the Federalist Papers with Alexander Hamilton and John Jay to encourage ratification of the Constitution. First Speaker of the House, later served as Jefferson’s Secretary of State. As president, led the United States into the War of 1812 and called for a standing army and navy to fight the British (reversing earlier position). Wife Dolley saved the only true portrait of Washington when Brits burned the White House. Quote: “All men having power ought to be distrusted to a certain degree.” Trivia: at 5'4", shortest president ever.
5. James Monroe. April 28, 1758–July 4, 1831. President 1817–1825. Nicknames and honorifics: “Last Cocked Hat, Era of Good Feelings President.” As teen fought in Continental Army and later studied law with Jefferson before entering politics. Presidency called “Era of Good Feelings"–period without partisan strife thanks to total dominance of Democratic-Republicans. Monroe Doctrine, set forth in 1823, stated the United States wouldn’t tolerate interference by European powers in the New World. Quote: “Our country may be likened to a new house. We lack many things, but we possess the most precious of all–liberty!” Trivia: Monroe was the last Founding Father to serve as president and the last to wear a powdered wig.
6. John Quincy Adams. July 11, 1767–February 23, 1848. President 1825–1829. Nicknames and honorifics: “Old Man Eloquent, Publicola, The Abolitionist.” New England lawyer like his father John Adams. Monroe’s Secretary of State, helped acquire Florida from Spain in 1819. Lost popular vote to Andrew Jackson in 1824 but was voted the winner by House of Representatives. Focused on modernizing infrastructure for economic expansion, but alienated Southern voters with 1828 “Tariff of Abominations.” In 1841 he won Supreme Court case defending rebel slaves who seized the Spanish ship Amistad. Quote: “America does not go abroad in search of monsters to destroy.” Trivia: Adams swam nude in the Potomac every morning. To get an interview, a female journalist named Anne Royall sat on his clothes until he agreed to talk to her.
7. Andrew Jackson. March 15, 1767–June 8, 1845. President 1829–1837. Nicknames and honorifics: “Old Hickory, King Andrew, Hero of New Orleans, Sharp Knife.” First president from the frontier, born in South Carolina, lost his entire family during the American Revolution. Won fame as military hero in War of 1812. After 1824 loss to Adams, created Democratic Party, exploiting regional tension between Northeastern elite and the rest of the country. Invented “spoils” system, firing all incumbent civil servants and giving jobs to his supporters. Later condemned for deporting “civilized” native tribes from Southeast to Oklahoma in brutal “Trail of Tears.” Quote: “To the victors belong the spoils.” Trivia: Jackson survived an assassination attempt when both of the would-be assassin’s pistols misfired; Jackson beat him senseless.
8.Martin van Buren. December 5, 1782–July 24, 1862. President 1837–1841. Nicknames and honorifics: “The Little Magician, The Red Fox of Kinderhook, Old Kinderhook, Little Van, The Enchanter, The Great Manager, Matty Van.” Born in Kinderhook, New York, grew up speaking Dutch. After training as a lawyer, organized New York’s first statewide political machine and won election to the Senate in 1821. Curried favor in South with staunch defense of slavery and opposition to tariffs; played a key role in building Jackson’s Democratic Party. After serving as Jackson’s vice president, he easily won election in 1836 but took the blame for a deep economic depression which began in 1837. Quote: “The less government interferes with private pursuits, the better for general prosperity.” Trivia: some historians say the word “okay” comes from van Buren supporters who abbreviated his nickname, “Old Kinderhook,” “O.K.”
9. william Henry Harrison. February 9, 1773–April 4, 1841. President 1841. Nicknames and honorifics: “Old Tippecanoe, Old Tip, Washington of the West, Old Granny.” Military hero for victory over native alliance led by Tecumseh at Tippecanoe in 1811. Barely served a month before dying from a respiratory infection. Quote: “I contend that the strongest of all governments is that which is most free.” Trivia: Harrison delivered the longest inauguration speech ever, caught cold, and died, making his the shortest presidency ever.
10. John Tyler. March 29, 1790–January 18, 1862. President 1841–1845. Nicknames and honorifics: “Accidental President, His Accidency, Young Hickory.” Virginia lawyer who supported Democrats at first, but jumped to Whigs after Jackson threatened to use force if South Carolina “nullified” the Tariff of Abominations during the “Nullification Crisis” of 1833 (an early dispute over states’ rights). First VP to succeed to the presidency on death of predecessor. Wanted to admit Texas as slave state, but was frustrated by Whig anti-slavery faction; succeeded in admitting Florida as slave state in 1845. Later supported Secession and served in the Confederate House of Representatives. Quote: “I can never consent to being dictated to.” Trivia: Tyler had 15 children by two wives, the most of any president.
11. James Polk. November 2, 1795–June 15, 1849. President 1845–1849. Nicknames and honorifics: “Polk the Purposeful, Polk the Plodder, Napoleon of the Stump.” Son of a Scots-Irish merchant from North Carolina, studied law in Tennessee before getting into politics. Elected to Congress, Polk became Speaker of the House and a key Jackson ally. In 1844 Polk broke pro/anti-slavery deadlock at Democratic convention by promising to admit Texas as slave state and then step down after one term, leaving future expansion up for grabs. Annexation of Texas in 1845 led to the Mexican-American War of 1846–1848; Polk grabbed a huge chunk of land from Mexico including California. Quote: “With me it is exceptionally true that the Presidency is no bed of roses.” Trivia: first president to have his photo taken.
12. Zachary Taylor. November 24, 1784–July 9, 1850. President 1849–1850. Nicknames and honorifics: “Old Rough and Ready, Old Zack.” Military hero of the Mexican-American War, hailed from Virginia and owned slaves in Louisiana, but alienated South by trying to have California and New Mexico join as free states (in bid to please North). Died of food poisoning after just 16 months in office. Quote: “I have always done my duty. I am ready to die. My only regret is for the friends I leave behind me.” Trivia: last president to own slaves while in office.
13.Millard Fillmore. January 7, 1800–March 8, 1874. President 1850–1853. Nicknames and honorifics: “The Accidental President, The Wool-Carder President.” Lawyer from upstate New York, chosen as Taylor’s vice president to give Whigs broad national support. Ironically pursued opposite approach to nation unity, trying to admit New Mexico and Utah as slave states to please South (alienating North). Supported Compromise of 1850: California joined a free state, New Mexico and Utah as territories with no restrictions on slavery, Fugitive Slave Law said Federal marshals could help capture runaway slaves in North. Quote: “May God save the country, for it is evident that the people will not.” Trivia: Fillmore refused an honorary degree from Oxford, protesting he had “neither literary nor scientific attainment.”
14.Franklin Pierce. November 23, 1804–October 8, 1869. President 1853–1857. Nicknames and honorifics: “Handsome Frank, Baby, Purse.” New Hampshire lawyer and Mexican-American War hero. Northern background and Southern sympathies helped win Democratic nomination and the White House. Major event was the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, scrapping the Missouri Compromise of 1820 and opening territory above the 36°30’ line to slavery, leading to open violence between pro- and anti-slavery settlers. Only incumbent president not re-nominated by his party. Quote: “There is nothing left to do but get drunk.” Trivia: first president to have a White House Christmas tree.
15. James Buchanan. April 23, 1791–June 1, 1868. President 1857–1861. Nicknames and honorifics: “Old Buck, The Do-Nothing President, Ten-Cent Jimmie.” Pennsylvania lawyer with Southern sympathies nominated by the Democrats in 1856 as a compromise between pro- and anti-slavery factions. Punted slavery to the Supreme Court, which ruled in Dred Scott v. Sanford (1857) that Congress couldn’t prohibit slavery in U.S. territories, leading to surge by anti-slavery Republicans. When Southern states seceded following Lincoln’s election, took position that states weren’t allowed to secede, but he also wasn’t allowed to stop them. Quote: “What is right and what is practicable are two different things.” Trivia: only president who never married.
16. abraham Lincoln. February 12, 1809–April 15, 1865. President 1861–1865. Nicknames and honorifics: “Honest Abe, Uncle Abe, The Rail-Splitter, The Great Emancipator, The Liberator, King Lincoln.” Born in Kentucky, moved to Illinois because his father objected to slavery. Ferried cargo aboard flatboats on the Mississippi and gained respect as a formidable wrestler. Lost Senate bid in 1858 but won fame for eloquent opposition to slavery in debates with Sen. Stephen A. Douglas. Election in 1860 provoked Southern Secession and Civil War. Turned war into a crusade with Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, freeing slaves in rebel states. Assassinated by an unstable actor, John Wilkes Booth, shortly after Confederate surrender. Ranked one of the greatest presidents for preserving Union and freeing slaves. Quote: “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” Trivia: at 6'4', tallest president.
17.Andrew Johnson. December 29, 1808–July 31, 1875. President 1865–1869. Nicknames and honorifics: “The Tailor, Sir Veto.” Democrat from east Tennessee, only Southern Senator who didn’t resign during Secession. In 1864 nominated as VP to show Lincoln’s commitment to postwar reconciliation. Tried to follow Lincoln’s moderate approach to Reconstruction but couldn’t control Radical Republicans in Congress who wanted to punish South, leading to the rise of Jim Crow. Quote: “I feel incompetent to perform duties … which have been so unexpectedly thrown upon me.” Trivia: Johnson was buried with his head resting on a copy of the Constitution.
18. Ulysses s. Grant. April 27, 1822–July 23, 1885. President 1869–1877. Nicknames and honorifics: “American Caesar, Unconditional Surrender Grant, Useless S. Grant, Galena Tanner, Butcher Grant.” Failed businessman from Ohio who won fame for leading Union armies to victory in the Civil War. As president secured ratification of the Fifteenth Amendment, giving freedmen the right to vote, and mobilized Union troops to combat the Ku Klux Klan, but failed to produce lasting changes in Southern society, leading to renewed oppression under Jim Crow. Also criticized for incredibly corrupt administration, marred by major scandals, and failing to stop the Panic of 1873, leading to a deep five-year depression. Quote: “It was my fortune, or misfortune, to be called to the office of Chief Executive without any previous political training.” Trivia: established the first National Park at Yellowstone on March 1, 1872.
19. Rutherford B. Hayes. October 4, 1822–January 17, 1893. President 1877–1881. Nicknames and honorifics: “His Fraudulency, Old 8 to 7, The Great Usurper, Rutherfraud Hayes, President De Facto, Granny Hayes.” Born in Ohio, graduated Harvard Law in 1845. Served in the Union army, then elected Republican governor of Ohio. Lost popular vote in 1876 but took White House through shady deal with Southern Democrats in return for promise to end Reconstruction. Declared president by 8-to–7 vote by congressional commission. Withdrew Federal troops from South. Quote: “It is the desire of the good people of the whole country that sectionalism as a factor in our politics should disappear.” Trivia: held first White House Easter egg roll.
20. James A. Garfield. November 19, 1831–September 19, 1881. President 1881. Nicknames and honorifics: “Canal Boy, The Preacher President, Boatman Jim.” Born in Ohio, worked on riverboats and tried preaching before becoming a high school principal. Later fought for the Union. As Republican member of Congress, helped make Hayes president in 1876. As president unveiled plans to reform the civil service but was assassinated by Charles J. Guiteau, angered by failure to obtain an appointment as U.S. consul to France. Quote: “The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable.” Trivia: probably died from an infection caused by surgeons probing for a bullet near his spine with bare hands; not the bullet itself.
21. Chester A. Arthur. October 5, 1829–November 18, 1886. President 1881–1885. Nicknames and honorifics: “Gentleman Boss, Prince Arthur, Walrus, The Father of the Civil Service.” Born in Vermont, practiced law in New York before joining Republicans. Continued Garfield’s anti-corruption crusade with the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883 instituting written examinations for civil service appointments. Quote: “I may be President of the United States, but my private life is nobody’s damn business.” Trivia: wife Nell died 20 months before he became president; vowed not to remarry, but still received four marriage proposals on last day in office.
22 & 24. Grover Cleveland. March 18, 1837–June 24, 1908. President 1885–1889, 1893–1897. Nicknames and honorifics: “Grover the Good, Old Grover, His Obstinacy, Beast of Buffalo, Uncle Jumbo.” Only president to serve non-consecutive terms. Son of Presbyterian pastor from Caldwell, New Jersey, practiced law in Buffalo, won election as sheriff in 1871, mayor in 1881, then governor of New York in 1882. First Democratic president since Johnson, rejected “spoils system,” used veto 534 times, but failed to institute gold standard or lower tariffs as hoped. In 1888 Republicans exploited dislike of anti-tariff stance to elect Benjamin Harrison, though Cleveland won popular vote. In second term repealed Harrison’s silver standard and tried again to lower tariffs without success. Criticized for breaking up railroad strikes in 1894. Quote: “Officeholders are the agents of the people, not their masters.” Trivia: only bachelor president to marry in White House, to 21-year-old Frances Folsom in 1886.
23. Benjamin Harrison. August 20, 1833–March 13, 1901. President 1889–1893. Nicknames and honorifics: “Young Tippecanoe, Little Ben, The Centennial President, The Human Iceberg, Kid Gloves Harrison.” Grandson of William Henry Harrison, practiced law in Indianapolis then fought in Civil War. Elected to Senate as Republican in 1880, supported high tariffs to protect domestic industries. As president signed the McKinley Tariff (one of the highest in U.S. history) and the Sherman Antitrust Act. Also presided over admission of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Washington, Idaho, and Wyoming. Blamed for worsening economic conditions, leading to defeat in 1892. Quote: “We Americans have no commission from God to police the world.” Trivia: first president recorded on phonograph.
25. William McKinley. January 29, 1843–September 14, 1901. President 1897–1901. Nicknames and honorifics: “The Major, Liberator of Cuba, Idol of Ohio, Wobbly Willie.” Won praise for courage as junior officer in Civil War, later practiced law in Ohio. Campaigned for his old commander, Rutherford B. Hayes, then served in Congress, later governor of Ohio. Beat populist Democrat William Jennings Bryan in 1896, reflecting shift from rural agrarian to urban industrial economy. Initially opposed Spanish-American War before giving in to public opinion; also oversaw annexation of Hawaii. Assassinated less than a year into his second term by anarchist Leon Czolgosz. Quote: “Unlike any other nation, here the people rule, and their will is the supreme law.” Trivia: first president to ride in a car and first to campaign by telephone.
26. Theodore roosevelt. October 27, 1858–January 6, 1919. President 1901–1909. Nicknames and honorifics: “TR, Teedie, Teddy, Rough Rider, Rough and Ready, Hero of San Juan Hill, Cowboy, Old Four Eyes, Ted the Meddler, The Lion, Trust Buster.” From wealthy New York political family, at Harvard alternated academic pursuits with crew and boxing. Dropped out of Columbia Law to run for New York State Assembly. After death of mother Mittie and first wife Alice in 1884, withdrew to North Dakota, where he served as frontier sheriff. After returning and marrying second wife Edith, led civil service reform for Harrison, then became police commissioner of New York City in 1895. Famed for fighting corruption, appointed assistant secretary of the Navy (with a break in 1898 to fight in the Spanish-American War). After war, governor of New York and finally vice president under McKinley. As president focused on trust-busting and consumer protection. Helped create new nation, Panama, as site for Panama Canal. Unsuccessful bid for a third term with “Bull Moose Party” in 1912. Quote: “Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” Trivia: love of nature made him a pioneering conservationist, and in 1903 an admirer sent him a stuffed toy bear, sparking the craze for “Teddy” bears.
27. William Howard Taft. September 15, 1857–March 8, 1930. President 1909–1913. Nicknames and honorifics: “Big Chief, Old Bill, Big Lub.” Another Republican lawyer from Ohio. Worked in private practice and then served on the Ohio Supreme Court before being appointed U.S. solicitor general in 1890. Appointed governor-general of the Philippines and later Secretary of War under Roosevelt. Carried on some of TR’s initiatives, including trust-busting and civil service reforms, but managed to alienate both big business and progressive reformers, and lost in a landslide to Wilson in 1912. Second public career as Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, 1921–1930. Quote: “The world is not going to be saved by legislation.” Trivia: At over 350 pounds, the heaviest president; on several occasions got stuck in the White House bathtub.
28.Woodrow wilson. December 28, 1856–February 3, 1924. President 1913–1921. Nicknames and honorifics: “The Professor, The Phrase-maker, The Prince of Peace.” Son of Presbyterian theologian from Virginia, first studied law but then switched to history and political science. President of Princeton, in 1910 elected governor of New Jersey as Progressive Democrat, won fame for fighting corrupt political “machines.” First term as president focused on antitrust, bank, and currency reforms, including creation of Federal Reserve in 1913. Second term dominated by WWI. Failed to restrain vengeful French at Versailles treaty negotiations, also failed to persuade Republican Senators at home to join the League of Nations, setting stage for WWII. After stroke in September 1919, wife Edith ran the White House for the rest of his second term. Quote: “The world must be made safe for democracy.” Trivia: first president to deliver his State of the Union address to Congress in person since John Adams in 1799.
29. Warren G. Harding. November 2, 1865–August 2, 1923. President 1921–1923. Nicknames and honorifics: “W. G., Wobbly Warren.” Ohio Republican, newspaper publisher. Administration tarnished by scandals, including Teapot Dome (oil companies bribed Secretary of the Interior for mineral rights). Criticized for relying on untrustworthy friends, collectively known as “the Ohio Gang.” Died of a heart attack after less than three years in office. Quote: “I have no trouble with my enemies … but my friends, my goddamned friends, they’re the ones who keep me walking the floor at nights!” Trivia: wearing size 14 shoes, had the largest feet of any president.
30. Calvin Coolidge. July 4, 1872–January 5, 1933. President 1923–1929. Nicknames and honorifics: “Silent Cal, Cautious Cal, Cool Cal, The Sphinx of the Potomac.” Lawyer from Vermont, built his political base in Massachusetts: president of the state senate in 1914, lieutenant governor in 1915, governor in 1919. As vice-president, one of few officials in the Harding administration not tainted by corruption. Presided over rapid economic growth in the “roaring 20s” and Dawes Plan, which staved off European financial collapse with new loans but set the stage for the Great Depression. Quote: “The business of America is business.” Trivia: slept more than any other president–ten hours a day.
31.Herbert Hoover. August 10, 1874–October 20, 1964. President 1929–1933. Nicknames and honorifics: “Wonder Boy, Chief, The Grand Old Man, The Great Engineer, The Great Humanitarian.” Born in Iowa, orphaned at age nine, went to Oregon to live with an uncle. Studied geology at Stanford, first career as mining engineer took him to Australia and China. Organized humanitarian aid during WW I, saving millions of lives in Europe and Russia. Secretary of Commerce under Harding and Coolidge (who gave him the sarcastic nickname “Wonder Boy”). Won landslide victory in 1928, but was derailed by the Great Depression. Many key policies, like wage and price controls, backfired and made the situation worse. Quote: “With impressive proof on all sides of magnificent progress, no one can rightly deny the fundamental correctness of our economic system.” Trivia: said he could never join the Democratic Party because as a boy in Iowa the only Democrat he knew was the town drunk.
32. Franklin Delano roosevelt. January 30, 1882–April 12, 1945. President 1933–1945. Nicknames and honorifics: “FDR, The Boss, King Franklin, That Man In the White House, The New Dealer.” Born into old New York political family (TR was fifth cousin). Served as assistant secretary of the Navy in World War I, then James M. Cox’s running mate in unsuccessful 1920 Democratic presidential campaign. In August 1921, contracted polio which resulted in permanent paralysis below the waist. Elected Democratic governor of New York in 1928, then president in 1932. New Deal was credited with helping end Depression, but unclear how much it really helped. Also criticized for trying to stack the Supreme Court in 1937. Nonetheless considered one of the greatest presidents for leading the United States to victory in World War II. After Pearl Harbor, maintained political support for war by explaining complex strategic issues so ordinary people could understand. Coordinated U.S. efforts with Allies (U.K. and U.S.S.R.). Chief architect of the post-war political landscape, setting the stage for the Cold War; also launched Manhattan Project, opening the nuclear age. Suffered a stroke and died just a few months into his unprecedented fourth term. Quote: “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Trivia: there are only two published photographs of FDR in his wheelchair.
33.Harry S. Truman. May 8, 1884–December 26, 1972. President 1945–1952. Nicknames and honorifics: “Give ‘Em Hell Harry, Haberdasher Harry, High-Tax Harry, Mister Missouri.” Small-town businessman from Missouri. After serving as artillery officer in WWI, got involved in local politics, later elected Democratic Senator from Missouri in 1935. FDR’s third vice president. As president gave the order to drop atom bombs on Japan, ending WWII. Later presided over difficult postwar period as economy readjusted. Expected to lose in 1948, beat Republican Thomas Dewey by small margin. Launched Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe, helped form NATO, forced Soviets out of Iran, and withstood Soviet pressure by ordering Berlin airlift. Desegregated military and introduced anti-communist screening for government jobs. Repelled North Korean invasion of South Korea in 1950 (but dismissed MacArthur for insubordination). Quote: “The buck stops here.” trivia: the “S.” in Truman’s name doesn’t stand for anything.
34. Dwight D. Eisenhower. October 14, 1890–March 28, 1969. President 1953–1961. Nicknames and honorifics: “Ike, Kansas Cyclone, Duckpin.” As Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in Europe, directed Normandy landings and liberation of France in 1944, then invasion and occupation of Western Germany. As president, ended war in Korea by threatening to use nuclear weapons against China. At home, ordered construction of interstate highway system and enforced Supreme Court’s decision integrating schools in Brown v. Board. Also launched U.S. space program in response to Sputnik. Despite military background, favored smaller military balanced by more nuclear weapons; warned against growth of “military-industrial complex.” Quote: “Any man who wants to be president is either an egomaniac or crazy.” Trivia: greatest disappointment was not making West Point baseball team.
35. John fitzgerald Kennedy. May 29, 1917–November 22, 1963. President 1961–1963. Nicknames and honorifics: “JFK, Jack.” Son of wealthy Wall St. financier Joseph Kennedy, attended Harvard and served in the Pacific in WWII. Served as Democratic representative and senator from Massachusetts, then won close election over Richard Nixon in shady circumstances in 1960. First Catholic and Irish-American president, supported civil rights and planned to extend New Deal programs. Approved invasion of Cuba by CIA-backed exiles but withheld air support, resulting in debacle at Bay of Pigs in 1961. In 1962, confronted Soviets over nuclear missiles stationed on Cuba in the Cuban Missile Crisis. Assassinated in Dallas by Lee Harvey Oswald. Quote: “And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.” Trivia: the only president who also won a Pulitzer Prize (for Profiles in Courage, 1955).
36. Lyndon Baines Johnson. August 27, 1908–January 22, 1972. President 1963–1969. Nicknames and honorifics: “LBJ, Landslide Lyndon.” Taught high school speech and debate in Texas before winning election to Congress in 1937. During WWII he asked for a combat command but was instead sent by FDR to be fact finder in the Pacific. Elected senator from Texas in 1948, lost the Democratic nomination to JFK in 1960, then argued his way into becoming JFK’s running mate. Supported civil rights; continued space race; expanded New Deal welfare guarantees with the Great Society, including Medicaid and Medicare. Beat Goldwater by a huge margin in 1964, but anti-communist political pressure from GOP led him to escalate Vietnam War. Chose not to seek reelection in 1968. Quote: “If one morning I walked on top of the water across the Potomac River, the headline that afternoon would read: ‘President Can’t Swim.’ “ Trivia: liked the soft drink Fresca so much it was on tap in the White House.
37.Richard M. Nixon. January 9, 1913–April 22, 1994. President 1969–1974. Nicknames and honorifics: “Tricky Dick.” After serving as naval officer in WWII, elected to House of Representatives in 1946. Elected senator from California in 1950, won fame for anti-communist investigations. In 1952 chosen as Eisenhower’s running mate to bolster Ike’s anti-communist credentials. After 1960 loss to JFK retired from politics to practice law, but returned to run as “candidate of order and decency” in 1968. Extricated U.S. from Vietnam, but outraged anti-war protestors with secret bombing of Cambodia. Supported civil rights, increased welfare spending, formed the Environmental Protection Agency, signed groundbreaking environmental legislation, and presided over 1969 Apollo moon landing. Won re-election in 1972 with landslide 60 percent of popular vote, but second term was derailed by Watergate scandal; resigned rather than face conviction by Congress on articles of impeachment. Quote: “I am not a crook!” Trivia: first campaign for Congress was funded by wartime poker winnings.
38. Gerald Ford. July 14, 1913–December 26, 2006. President 1974–1977. Nicknames and honorifics: “Jerry, The Accidental President, Mr. Nice Guy.” Born in Nebraska, grew up in Michigan, attended UMich, where he was a college football star. He then took a coaching job at Yale and schmoozed his way into Yale Law. After fighting in the Pacific in WWII, left his legal career behind to run for Republican representative from Michigan, ultimately serving 1949–1973 (1965–1973 as GOP Minority Leader). Became vice president in October 1973, replacing Spiro Agnew, who resigned amid allegations of tax fraud. Enjoyed reputation for honesty and sincerity, but criticized for pardoning Nixon and presiding over worst economic downturn since Great Depression, resulting from high inflation and Arab oil embargo punishing U.S. support for Israel. Quote: “My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over.” Trivia: only person to serve as vice president and president without being elected to either office.
39. James Earl Carter, Jr. Born October 1, 1924. President 1977–1981. Nicknames and honorifics: “Jimmy, The Peanut Farmer.” From rural Georgia, attended U.S. Naval Academy during WWII and served in first nuclear submarines before resigning to take over family farm after father died in 1953. Elected to Georgia state senate in 1961 and governor in 1970, despite refusal to support segregation. Evangelical Christian support helped win the White House in 1976, but alienated conservative Christians by supporting feminist-backed Equal Rights Amendment and failing to pursue anti-abortion agenda. Helped bring peace between Israel and Egypt and initiated support for anti-Soviet Afghan rebels, but foreign policy derailed by Islamic Revolution in Iran and subsequent hostage crisis, leading to defeat by Reagan. Second career as humanitarian and peacemaker earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Quote: “You cannot divorce religious belief and public service. I’ve never detected any conflict between God’s will and my political duty.” Trivia: first president born in a hospital.
40. Ronald Reagan. February 6, 1911–June 5, 2004. Nicknames and honorifics: “The Great Communicator, The Gipper, Gip, Dutch, Teflon Ron.” Born in Illinois, moved to L.A. in 1930s to pursue acting career. Elected president of Screen Actors Guild, later became spokesman for General Electric, leading to political career. Joined GOP in 1962, elected governor of California in 1967. As president increased funding to Afghan rebels, advocated space-based missile defense (“Star Wars”) and reopened the arms race with the Soviets, pushing USSR to financial collapse. Personal friendship with reformist Soviet premier Gorbachev led to more conciliatory approach in second term. At home, massive defense spending and tax cuts helped revitalize economy, but national debt rose, and lax financial regulation led to recession in 1990–1991. Criticized for probable involvement in illegal Iran-Contra affair. Quote: “The most terrifying words in the English language are: I’m from the government and I’m here to help.” Trivia: oldest president, age 69 at first election.
41. George H. W. Bush. Born June 12, 1924. President 1989–1993. Nicknames and honorifics: “Poppy.” Son of Massachusetts banker Prescott Bush, served as Navy pilot in WWII (at age 18, the youngest person in the service when he joined), attended Yale, later went into Texas oil business, making millions. Elected to Congress in 1967, appointed ambassador to U.N. by Nixon in 1971, then CIA director under Ford. After unsuccessful bid for GOP nomination in 1980, became Reagan’s running mate. As president won praise for decisive victory in liberation of Kuwait in First Gulf War (Operation Desert Storm, August 2, 1990–February 28, 1991); also presided over collapse of Soviet Union, fall of Berlin Wall, and end of Cold War. But took blame for steep economic downturn in 1990–1991. Quote: “I have opinions of my own, strong opinions, but I don’t always agree with them.” Trivia: distantly related to presidents Franklin Pierce, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and Gerald Ford, as well as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
42. William Jefferson Clinton. Born August 19, 1946. President 1993–2001. Nicknames and honorifics: “Bubba, Big Chief, Big Dog, Old Bill, The Man from Hope, Comeback Kid, Elvis, Slick Willie.” Son of a traveling salesman, he decided on political career after meeting JFK at a reception in White House Rose Garden in 1962. Won Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford, then went to Yale Law, where he met future wife Hillary. Later criticized for using political connections to avoid serving in Vietnam. Elected attorney general of Arkansas in 1976, governor in 1978 (at age 32, youngest in the country), winning praise for improving backwards educational system. Surprise Democratic nominee in 1992, presided over economic boom; paid down Reagan-era debt; reformed welfare. In foreign policy, strengthened economic ties to Mexico and Canada; reinvented NATO with humanitarian interventions in former Yugoslavia; and bombed Al Qaeda targets following terrorist attacks on U.S. embassies. Dogged by allegations of corrupt land deals in Arkansas (Whitewater) and multiple extramarital affairs. Lied under oath about affair with intern Monica Lewinsky, leading to impeachment for perjury, but no conviction. Quote: “It depends on what the meaning of the word ‘is’ is.” Trivia: first Democrat to win two elections since FDR.
43. George W. Bush. Born July 6, 1946. President 2001–2009. Nicknames and honorifics: “Dubya, Bushie, Junior, Tweed.” Son of George H. W. Bush, born in Connecticut, attended Yale, then Harvard Business School before joining the family oil business. After a failed run for Congress in 1978, became a co-owner of the Texas Rangers baseball team. Turned to Christian faith to overcome drinking problem in 1986. Unseated Democrat Ann Richards as governor of Texas in 1994, then beat Clinton’s VP Al Gore in a close, disputed election in 2000. Responded to September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks with “global war on terror,” beginning with invasion and occupation of Afghanistan; formation of new cabinet-level Department of Homeland Security; and far-reaching surveillance, including warrantless wiretaps. Ordered controversial invasion of Iraq on March 20, 2003; criticized for leading U.S. to war on faulty intelligence and for invading without sufficient forces. Also faulted for inadequate federal response to Hurricane Katrina, which destroyed much of New Orleans on August 29, 2005. As second term ended, U.S. economy suffered worst downturn since Great Depression, due partly to lax regulation. Helped avert total collapse of financial markets with massive bank bailout and financial stimulus. Quote: “When I take action, I’m not going to fire a $2 million missile at a $10 empty tent and hit a camel in the butt. It’s going to be decisive.” Trivia: nickname for chief political advisor Karl Rove is “turd-blossom.”
44. Barack Hussein Obama. Born August 4, 1961. President 2009–20?? Nicknames and honorifics: “Barry, No Drama Obama.” First African-American president. Born in Hawaii to white mother and Kenyan father, lived in Indonesia from 1967–1971, then worked as community organizer in Chicago before attending Columbia, then Harvard Law. Returned to Chicago as civil rights attorney, elected to Illinois state senate in 1997, junior U.S. senator from Illinois in 2004. Surprise Democratic nominee in 2008, beat Arizona Senator John McCain amid major recession, benefiting from widespread dissatisfaction with GOP. Immediately faced conservative backlash for alleged “socialist” policies, including sweeping health care reform, and unprecedented budget deficits. Ordered troop surge to battle resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan, but repudiating unilateral Bush approach has failed to produce progress toward Israeli-Palestinian peace or halting Iran’s nuclear program. Also criticized for alleged failure to respond to massive oil spill caused by BP oil rig in Gulf of Mexico. Quote: “What do you think a stimulus is? It’s spending–that’s the whole point!” Trivia: won two Grammy awards for spoken-word albums for audio versions of his books Audacity of Hope (2008) and Dreams from My Father (2005).