Presidential Assignments: Analyzing Challenges and Achievements

Pham 1 Anphomy Pham Dr. Lightfoot POS 2041, American National Government November 06,2023 Presidential Assignments Directions: Answer the following questions about the presidents found below and list the sources you used to complete the assignment . George Washington 1 . What challenges does this president inherit ? The aftermath of the Revolutionary War, unstable economic conditions, and the need to construct a new, stable administration were among the major issues that George Washington inherited. The nation had to set up a workable structure of government in addition to dealing with debt and a lack of centralized authority . 2 . What were his major accomplishments ? Successfully led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War. Presided over the Constitutional Convention in 1787, playing a key role in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. Became the first President of the United States and set important precedents for the office. The federal judicial system was established. Enacted the Judiciary Act of 1789. Implemented the first national bank through the creation of the First Bank of the United States 3 . What year was he elected? How long did he serve ? The United States' first president, George Washington, was chosen in 1788 and sworn in 1789 .

Pham 2 He declined a third term after serving two terms after being unanimously re-elected in 1792 . 4 . What sort of relationship did he have with Congress ? Washington had a generally positive and cooperative relationship with Congress. His leadership and stature as a national hero contributed to a sense of unity, and he worked closely with Congress to set up and implement policies 5 . Was he an effective communicator ? Yes, Washington was known for his reserved and dignified speech style. His Farewell Address in 1796 is famous for its advice on avoiding political factionalism and foreign entanglements . 6 . How did he expand or limit the powers of the presidency ? Washington’s presidency helped define the powers of the executive branch. He established the precedent of a two-term limit, a tradition followed until Franklin D. Roosevelt. Through his actions, he set the stage for a strong executive branch while respecting the constitutional limitations . 7 . What will you remember this president for ? George Washington is remembered as the “Father of His Country” for his crucial role in the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. His leadership, both on the battlefield and in the presidency, is highly regarded. His voluntary relinquishment of power after two terms established a precedent for the peaceful transition of power .

Pham 3 Franklin Delano Roosevelt 1 . What challenges did this president inherit ? FDR inherited the presidency during the Great Depression, a time of widespread economic hardship marked by high unemployment and financial instability. Additionally, he faced the challenges of a world on the brink of World War II as he took office in 1933 . 2 . What were his major accomplishments ? New Deal Programs: Roosevelt implemented a series of programs and reforms known as the New Deal to address the economic crisis. These included the Social Security Act, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Leadership During World War II: FDR guided the United States through a significant portion of World War II, providing leadership during a crucial period in history. The establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to provide economic development to the Tennessee Valley region. The passage of the Banking Act of 1933, which aimed to stabilize the banking system . 3 . What year was he elected? how long did he serve ? Franklin D. Roosevelt was first elected in 1932 and served four terms. He was re-elected in 1936, 1940, and 1944. FDR served from 1933 until his death in 1945, making him the only president to serve more than two terms . 4 . What sort of relationship did he have with Congress ?

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Pham 4 Roosevelt generally had a strong and effective relationship with Congress, especially in the early years of his presidency when many New Deal programs were enacted. The Democratic Party's dominance in Congress during much of FDR's presidency facilitated the passage of key legislation . 5 . Was he an effective communicator ? FDR was an exceptionally effective communicator. He delivered frequent radio addresses known as "fireside chats" that reassured and informed the American people during times of crisis. His ability to connect with the public helped build support for his policies and programs . 6 . How did he expand or limit the powers of the presidency ? FDR expanded the role of the federal government in addressing economic and social issues through the New Deal. During World War II, his presidency saw an expansion of executive power as the nation faced the challenges of global conflict . 7 . For what will you remember this president ? Franklin D. Roosevelt is remembered for his leadership during two of the most challenging periods in American history: the Great Depression and World War II. His New Deal policies had a lasting impact on the role of the federal government in addressing economic issues. FDR's leadership style and communication skills set a standard for future presidents . Lyndon Baines Johnson

Pham 5 1 . What challenges did this president inherit ? Lyndon B. Johnson inherited the presidency after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. He faced the challenge of continuing Kennedy's agenda and dealing with the nation's grief following the tragic event . 2 . What were his major accomplishments ? Civil Rights Legislation: Johnson played a crucial role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, landmark pieces of legislation aimed at ending racial segregation and discrimination. War on Poverty: Johnson declared an "unconditional war on poverty" and introduced a series of social programs and initiatives collectively known as the Great Society, including Medicare and Medicaid. Economic and Social Reforms: Johnson implemented a range of domestic policies, including education initiatives, environmental conservation efforts, and the establishment of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting . 3 . What year was he elected? how long did he serve ? Lyndon B. Johnson was initially vice president and assumed the presidency on November 22, 1963, after the assassination of President Kennedy. He was elected in his own right in 1964 and served until 1969, declining to seek re-election in 1968 . 4 . What sort of relationship did he have with Congress ? Johnson have previously served in Congress, had a strong understanding of legislative processes.

Pham 6 His relationship with Congress was generally effective, and he used his political skills to push through significant legislative achievements . 5 . Was he an effective communicator ? Johnson was known for his forceful and persuasive communication style. His speeches often conveyed a sense of urgency, particularly in advocating for civil rights legislation and the War on Poverty . 6 . How did he expand or limit the powers of the presidency ? Johnson faced challenges in managing the conflict in Vietnam, which led to the expansion of presidential war powers. His presidency is associated with the use of the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution in 1964, granting broad military authority in Vietnam without a formal declaration of war from Congress . 7 . For what will you remember this president ? Lyndon B. Johnson is remembered for his transformative domestic agenda, particularly in the areas of civil rights and social programs. The Johnson administration's push for civil rights legislation and the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid had a lasting impact on American society. However, his legacy is also marked by the escalation of the Vietnam War, which remains a controversial aspect of his presidency .

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Pham 7 Ronald Reagan 1 . What challenges did this president inherit ? Ronald Reagan inherited several challenges, including a struggling economy marked by high inflation and unemployment. Additionally, he faced Cold War tensions with the Soviet Union and the aftermath of the Iran Hostage Crisis . 2 . What were his major accomplishments ? Reagan implemented a series of economic reforms, known as Reaganomics, which included tax cuts, deregulation, and a focus on free-market principles. Reagan played a role in the end of the Cold War by engaging in diplomatic efforts with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. He advanced conservative principles, promoting limited government, a strong national defense, and traditional values . 3 . What year was he elected? how long did he serve ? Ronald Reagan was elected in 1980 and re-elected in 1984. He served two terms, from 1981 to 1989 . 4 . What sort of relationship did he have with Congress ? Reagan had a mixed relationship with Congress. While facing opposition from Democrats, he also had significant support, particularly from Republicans. His ability to communicate and negotiate allowed him to pass key pieces of legislation, including tax cuts .

Pham 8 5 . Was he an effective communicator ? Reagan was widely regarded as an effective communicator. His speeches, including the famous "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" speech at the Brandenburg Gate, were notable for their clarity and conviction . 6 . How did he expand or limit the powers of the presidency ? Reagan is often associated with a conservative philosophy that sought to limit the role of the federal government, emphasizing states' rights and individual liberties. He pursued a strong defense policy, expanding military spending, but also engaged in arms reduction talks with the Soviet Union . 7 . For what will you remember this president ? Reagan is remembered for his impact on U.S. conservatism, his economic policies, and his role in ending the Cold War. Critics point to concerns about growing income inequality and the social impact of some policies. The Reagan presidency is often associated with a revival of conservative principles in American politics . Richard Nixon 1 . What challenges did this president inherit ? Richard Nixon inherited several challenges when he took office in 1969, including the ongoing Vietnam War, social unrest and protests, and economic difficulties. The nation was also grappling

Pham 9 with issues related to civil rights and the aftermath of the 1960s counterculture . 2 . What were his major accomplishments ? Nixon's historic visit to China in 1972 marked a significant thaw in U.S.-China relations and laid the groundwork for the normalization of diplomatic ties. Nixon negotiated arms control agreements with the Soviet Union, including the SALT I Treaty, which aimed to limit the proliferation of nuclear weapons . 3 . What year was he elected? how long did he serve ? Richard Nixon was elected in 1968 and re-elected in 1972. He served as president from 1969 to 1974 but resigned in August 1974 amid the Watergate scandal . 4 . What sort of relationship did he have with Congress ? Nixon faced a mix of relationships with Congress. In his first term, he had significant legislative successes, but as the Watergate scandal unfolded during his second term, relations deteriorated. The impeachment process was initiated, leading to Nixon's resignation before a formal vote . 5 . Was he an effective communicator ? Nixon was known for his strategic communication skills, particularly in addressing the public and managing the media. However, his public image was significantly affected by the Watergate scandal and the subsequent investigations .

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Pham 10 6 . How did he expand or limit the powers of the presidency ? Nixon's presidency is often associated with both the expansion and limitation of presidential powers. His administration expanded the executive branch's role in foreign policy, especially in dealing with China and the Soviet Union. The Watergate scandal, however, revealed abuses of power and led to legal and institutional reforms aimed at limiting executive authority . 7 . For what will you remember this president ? Richard Nixon is remembered for both his foreign policy achievements, such as the opening of relations with China, and the stain of the Watergate scandal. His resignation marked the first and only time a U.S. president has resigned from office. Nixon's legacy is complex, encompassing both diplomatic successes and the controversy surrounding Watergate . George W. Bush 1 . What challenges did this president inherit ? George W. Bush inherited the presidency in 2001 and faced significant challenges, including the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, which led to concerns about national security and initiated the War on Terror. Additionally, he faced economic challenges, including the bursting of the dot- com bubble . 2 . What were his major accomplishments ? Bush initiated military operations in Afghanistan in response to the 9/11 attacks, aiming to

Pham 11 dismantle the Taliban and eliminate Al-Qaeda. He signed the No Child Left Behind Act into law, which aimed to improve education standards and accountability . 3 . What year was he elected? how long did he serve ? George W. Bush was elected in 2000 and re-elected in 2004. He served two terms, from 2001 to 2009 . 4 . What sort of relationship did he have with Congress ? Bush faced varying relationships with Congress. In the aftermath of 9/11, there was bipartisan support for measures addressing national security. However, as his presidency progressed, there were increasing partisan divisions, particularly regarding the Iraq War and domestic policies . 5 . Was he an effective communicator ? Bush was known for his straightforward and plainspoken communication style. However, the perception of his communication skills varied, and his approval ratings were influenced by public opinion on his policies, particularly the Iraq War . 6 . How did he expand or limit the powers of the presidency ? The War on Terror led to an expansion of executive powers, particularly in matters of national security and surveillance. The administration argued for broad presidential authority to combat terrorism. The USA PATRIOT Act, signed into law in 2001, expanded the government's

Pham 12 surveillance and law enforcement powers in response to the 9/11 attacks . 7 . For what will you remember this president ? George W. Bush's presidency is often defined by his response to the 9/11 attacks, the War on Terror, and the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. He faced criticism for the handling of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the economic challenges during the 2008 financial crisis. Bush's legacy is complex, and public opinion varies on his policies and decisions, particularly those related to national security . Barack Obama 1 . What challenges did this president inherit ? Barack Obama inherited several significant challenges when he took office in 2009. The United States was facing the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, high unemployment rates, and ongoing military engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, he inherited a healthcare system in need of reform . 2 . What were his major accomplishments ? Obama signed the ACA into law in 2010, aiming to expand healthcare coverage and protect individuals with pre-existing conditions. He implemented the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in response to the economic downturn, including measures to stimulate economic recovery. Obama announced the restoration of diplomatic relations with Cuba in 2014. He played a key role in negotiating the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), an

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Pham 13 agreement aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear program . 3 . What year was he elected? how long did he serve ? Barack Obama was elected in 2008 and re-elected in 2012. He served two terms, from 2009 to 2017 . 4 . What sort of relationship did he have with Congress ? Obama faced challenges in maintaining a cooperative relationship with Congress, particularly during his second term when partisan divisions intensified. He faced opposition from Republicans on various policy fronts, leading to political gridlock at times . 5 . Was he an effective communicator ? Barack Obama is widely regarded as an effective communicator. His speeches, including the 2004 Democratic National Convention keynote address and his acceptance speech after winning the 2008 election, are notable for their eloquence and inspiration. He utilized social media, particularly during his 2008 campaign, to engage with a broader audience . 6 . How did he expand or limit the powers of the presidency ? Obama faced criticism for expanding executive powers in areas such as drone warfare and surveillance in the fight against terrorism. However, he also faced constraints, especially in the later years of his presidency, as political opposition in Congress limited his ability to advance

Pham 14 certain policy initiatives . 7 . For what will you remember this president ? Barack Obama's presidency is historic as he became the first African American president in U.S. history. His legacy is associated with efforts to address healthcare reform, stimulate economic recovery, and engage in diplomatic initiatives such as the normalization of relations with Cuba and the Iran Nuclear Deal. Obama's leadership style and emphasis on unity and inclusivity continue to influence political discourse .

Pham 15 Reference “ George Washington’s Life.” George Washington’s Mount Vernon, www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/biography ./ “ Constitution of the United States-A History.” National Archives and Records Administration, National Archives and Records Administration, www.archives.gov/founding-docs/more-perfect-union . “ FDR Biography.” FDR Presidential Library & Museum , www.fdrlibrary.org/fdr- biography . “ Lyndon B. Johnson.” Lyndon B. Johnson - LBJ Library, www.lbjlibrary.org/life- and-legacy/the-man-himself/biography . “ Presidency of Ronald Reagan.” Encyclopædia Britannica , Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/biography/Ronald- Reagan/Presidency . “ The Reagan Presidency.” Ronald Reagan, www.reaganlibrary.gov/reagans/reagan-administration/reagan- presidency .

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Pham 16 “ President Nixon.” President Nixon | Richard Nixon Museum and Library, www.nixonlibrary.gov/president-nixon . “ President Barack Obama.” Barack Obama Presidential Library , www.obamalibrary.gov/obamas/president-barack-obama .

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