Dwight D. Eisenhower
| Dwight D. Eisenhower | |
|---|---|
| File:Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Portrait.jpg | |
| Order | 34th President of the United States |
| In office | January 20, 1953 – January 20, 1961 |
| Vice President | Richard Nixon |
| Preceded by | Harry S. Truman |
| Succeeded by | John F. Kennedy |
| Born | October 14, 1890 Denison, Texas, United States |
| Political Party | Republican |
| Spouse | Mamie Eisenhower (m. 1916–1969) |
| Children | Doud, John |
| Profession | Soldier, military officer, academic, politician |
| Alma mater | United States Military Academy (West Point) |
| Signature | File:Dwight D. Eisenhower Signature.svg |
Dwight David Eisenhower (October 14, 1890 – March 28, 1969) was an American military officer and statesman who served as the 34th president of the United States from 1953 to 1961. He was a five-star general in the United States Army and served as Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force during World War II.
Early Life and Military Career
Eisenhower was born in Denison, Texas, and raised in Abilene, Kansas. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1915. Although he did not see combat in World War I, he rose rapidly through the ranks and became one of the most important military leaders of World War II.
World War II Leadership
As Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, Eisenhower led Operation Overlord—the D-Day invasion of Normandy in 1944. His leadership was instrumental in defeating Nazi Germany and securing Allied victory in Europe.
Presidency (1953–1961)
Eisenhower won the 1952 presidential election as a Republican, defeating Democrat Adlai Stevenson. During his two terms, he oversaw a period of economic prosperity, helped end the Korean War, established the Interstate Highway System, and enforced desegregation in schools. His foreign policy emphasized containment of communism, including the doctrine bearing his name.
Legacy
Eisenhower was widely admired for his calm leadership style and practical decision-making. His farewell address famously warned against the growing power of the “military-industrial complex.” He is consistently ranked among the more popular U.S. presidents.