Lyndon B. Johnson
| Lyndon B. Johnson | |
|---|---|
| |
| Order | 36th President of the United States |
| In office | November 22, 1963 – January 20, 1969 |
| Vice President | Hubert Humphrey |
| Preceded by | John F. Kennedy |
| Succeeded by | Richard Nixon |
| Born | August 27, 1908 Stonewall, Texas, United States |
| Political Party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Lady Bird Johnson (m. 1934–1973) |
| Children | Lynda, Luci |
| Profession | Teacher, politician |
| Alma mater | Texas State University |
| Signature | File:Lyndon B. Johnson Signature.svg |
Lyndon Baines Johnson (August 27, 1908 – January 22, 1973), often referred to by his initials LBJ, was the 36th president of the United States, serving from 1963 to 1969. He assumed the presidency following the assassination of John F. Kennedy and was a pivotal figure in American politics during the 1960s.
Early Life and Education
Johnson was born near Stonewall, Texas, and grew up in a rural setting. He graduated from Texas State University (then Southwest Texas State Teachers College) in 1930 and briefly worked as a high school teacher before entering politics.
Congressional Career
LBJ began his political career in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1937. In 1948, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, eventually becoming Senate Majority Leader. Known for his ability to build consensus, Johnson earned a reputation as one of the most effective legislators in Congress.
Vice Presidency
Johnson was elected vice president alongside President John F. Kennedy in 1960. He played a relatively low-profile role during the administration but remained an influential political figure behind the scenes.
Presidency (1963–1969)
After Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, Johnson took the oath of office aboard Air Force One. He quickly pushed forward an ambitious legislative agenda known as the “Great Society,” which included the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Medicare, Medicaid, and education funding.
Vietnam War and Controversy
Johnson escalated U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, a decision that led to widespread protests and criticism. The war overshadowed his domestic accomplishments and deeply affected his popularity. He chose not to seek re-election in 1968.
Later Life and Legacy
Johnson retired to his Texas ranch and wrote his memoirs. He died of a heart attack in 1973 at the age of 64. His legacy is mixed—praised for civil rights and social reforms but criticized for the escalation of the Vietnam War.