American Presidents

Both of President James Madison's vice presidents died in office. The "Acting Vice President" was next in line to be president until a new vice president was elected. Meet the first two of these unknown but important men.

Aug 28, 2005 - John S. Cooper

There was a time, prior to the Presidential Succession Act of 1886, when the President Pro Tem of the Senate was called the ACting Vice President. Ten men have held this unofficial office, one of them even serving for one day as Acting President.

Jun 28, 2005 - John S. Cooper

A brief look at some of the humorous stories from the three White House races of William Jennings Bryan.

May 28, 2005 - John S. Cooper

William Jennings Bryan was the only person to be runner-up in a Presidential election three times. He was also the youngest person ever nominated for President by a major political party. Although his government service only included four years in the U.S. House of Representatives and two years as Secretary of State, he had a dramatic effect on U.S. politics at the turn of the century, and started the movement that eventually became the modern Democratic Party.

Apr 28, 2005 - John S. Cooper

Two men hold the record for losing a race for the White House three times. This article will examine the first of these truly remarkable politicians, one called the Great Compromiser and the other called the Great Commoner.

Mar 28, 2005 - John S. Cooper

The basic differences between the two original parties could not be resolved through the normal political process. These incompatible views of government were evantually resolved by the Civil War. See what led to this inevitable conflict.

Feb 28, 2005 - John S. Cooper

Their basic differences in their view of mankind and the role of government led the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans to take very different stands on the issues facing them.

Jan 28, 2005 - John S. Cooper

The first two parties differed on basic philosophy about mankind, politics and the nature of government. At least you know what each party stood for, even if you disagreed.

Dec 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

John Adams was caught between the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans. They wanted a war and he didn't. Adams worked to continue Washington's policy of neutrality, which became increasingly difficult. He even went so far as to prepare for war but managed to maintain the peace. See how in this article.

Nov 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

John Adams inherited George Washington's problems with European conflicts and American neutrality. John Adams also tried to steer a neutral course, and only his determination prevented the United States from being forced to join the war between England and France. With most of the United States political leaders taking sides, Adams was almost alone in his desire for peace.

Oct 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

George Washington started many of the customs and traditions of our government. Some of these precedents are followed still today. In this article, we will see how Washington got our new government off to a great start.

Sep 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

George Washington was caught in between England and France in his stuggle to maintain American neutrality. In two controversial treaties, he avoided war and gained important rights for the new nation. He established the precedent of neutrality in foreign affairs, which was followed until the U.S. was attacked at Pearl Harbor.

Aug 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

George Washington had a most eventful administration. In this series, we will examine and explore the main events of his presidency. In this first article, we examine the establishment of a strong centralized economy.

Jul 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

Silas Wright was finally forced into accepting the governorship of New York. After a very controversial term, he was defeated for re-election by a landslide. His retirment was tragically short.

Jun 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

Silas Wright relunctantly agreed to enter the U.S. Senate, but did not like the controversy. He supported President Jackson and fought against the Bank of the United States. He did not want to be re-elected but felt obligated to accept another term, a decision he regretted.

May 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

Silar Wright turned down more major offices than most politicians ever win election to in their entire careers. He was offered cabinets posts, the governorship of New York, a seat in the U.S. Senate, the Vice Presidency and the Presidency. Learn why he refused so many positions.

Apr 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

Richard Mentor Johnson changed during his Vice Presidency, and his career ended as a result. His "domestic relations" continued to cause controversy, and he played no part in the Van Buren administration. In the end, his mental and physical health deteriorated, but he still won election to the state legislature.

Mar 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

Richard Mentor Johnson was a controversial political figure, mainly because of his "domestic relations." A slave owner, he made one of his slaves his common law wife which created some tension in his social circle. Still, he managed to get elected to both houses of Congress for twenty years, and then Vice President.

Feb 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

Richard Mentor Johnson was the only Vice President selected by the Senate rather than the Electoral College. A successful politician from a southern slave state, he took a slave as his wife. Johnson stood out as controversial in a controversial era.

Jan 28, 2004 - John S. Cooper

In the final part of his article, William Reynolds, the official village historian of Ossining, New York, finishes his talk on the shortest, thinnest and heaviest presidents.

Dec 25, 2003 - John S. Cooper

In this first contribution to this site by a guest author, William Reynolds (known to fans of this site as "Ossining") presents the transcript of a talk he gave recently. Mr. Reynolds is the official village historian of Ossining, New York, and a member of the Democratic Committee. I have taken the libery of adding some pictures and making some technical corrections.

Nov 25, 2003 - John S. Cooper

President Andrew John and President-elect Ulysses S. Grant did not like each other. Johnson refused to even ride in the same carriage as Grant. In this article, we examine the reasons and the story behind their feud.

Sep 26, 2003 - John S. Cooper

Several Presidents have skipped the inauguration of their successor. Their reasons and the stories behind them are examined.

Aug 29, 2003 - John S. Cooper

The Free Soil Party existed for just six years, but it changed the course of American history. In addition to changing a presidential election, it elected three of the most powerful Senators of their day, including a future Chief Justice and a future Vice President.

Jul 25, 2003 - John S. Cooper

There have been a number of "third parties" in our history, but few have had any impact or effect on our history. The Free Soil Party never won a national election, but they did change the outcome of one and the course of our history.

Jun 27, 2003 - John S. Cooper

In answering a letter from some readers in California, I discovered that a surprising number of presidential offspring moved to California. This article examines these westward bound presidential children.

May 30, 2003 - John S. Cooper

During the Civil War, The Republicans joined with the pro-war Democrats to create the National Union Party, a coalition party. Their choice for Vice President helped them win the election, but created serious problems when he became President after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.

Apr 18, 2003 - John S. Cooper

In 1840, The Whigs placed a Democrat on the ticket to attract more votes. They won the election, but soon regretted their choice. Read to learn what went wrong in the first of two such mixed tickets.

Mar 21, 2003 - John S. Cooper

Hubert Humphrey came very close to being elected President in 1968. This is the story of how close he came and why he lost. There have been far too few leaders like this in our history.

Feb 21, 2003 - John S. Cooper

Hubert Humphrey was not your typical Vice-President. Yet for all the frustration, he accomplished more than most. He also compromised some of his principles to play the loyal Vice-President in his effort to influence policy.

Jan 24, 2003 - John S. Cooper

Hubert Humphrey's nomination as Vice President in 1964 did not seem as certain as it appears with the advantage of hindsight. Presdient Johnson kept everyone, including Humphrey himself, guessing.

Dec 24, 2002 - John S. Cooper

After his disatrous start in the Senate, Hubert Humphrey rose through the ranks to become one of the leaders of the liberal cause. In this article, we examine his rise to power that made him a presidential candidate.

Nov 8, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Hubert Humphrey's first years in the Senate were not happy or productive ones. In typical Humphrey fashion, he took on the Senate powers and isolated himself from those in powerful leadership positions. In this article, we watch Humphrey tilt at windmills.

Oct 4, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Hubert Humphrey worked his way through school, and came to national attention with his courageous support of civil rights in 1948. He is most remembered as Lyndon Johnson's loyal Vice President and the man who lost a close election to Richard Nixon in 1968. In this article, we examine the early career of this verbose Vice President.

Sep 20, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Lincoln used his famous wit and humor to provide some relief from the horros of war. It provided him with strength when he most needed it. In this article, we look at some examples of his humor and how he used it.

Sep 6, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Abraham Lincoln is known for his homespun western humor. Many stories are recounted of how he used his famopus sense of humor to get his point across or to provide strength in dark moments. In this article, we will look at his wit and humor in the years before he became President.

Aug 23, 2002 - John S. Cooper

In this last article in the series, we see Henry Wilson become possibly the most influential senator of his time and win election as Vice President. At the time of his death, he was a leading contender for the Republican presidential nomination.

Aug 9, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Continuing from last article, we see Henry Wilson enter the U.S. Senate and rise through the ranks to become one of the most influential senators of his day. At the time of his death, he was a leading contender for his party's presidential nomination.

Jul 26, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Born in poverty and sold as an indentured sewrvant to a local farmer by his father, Jeremiah Jones Colbath work his way up to become Vice President of the United States, under the name of Henry Wilson. Learn the story of this true American success story.

Jul 12, 2002 - John S. Cooper

After he lost re-nomination for Vice President, Hamlin still had a major influence on the issues of the times. Learn how the fascinating political figure ended his career.,After he lost re-nomination for Vice President, Hamlin still had a major influence on the issues of the times. Learn how the fascinating political figure ended his career.

Jun 28, 2002 - John S. Cooper

As Vice Prsident, Hamlin was a frustrated as all the other VPs, but he managed to influence the most important document of the Lincoln administration. Learn about the highest ranking private in the Union army.

Jun 14, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Hannibal Hamlin was Vice President during all but several weeks of the Civil War, but he is almost forgotten by history. Learn about this interesting man who more than once almost changed our history.

May 31, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Webb Hayes was the son of a genuine war hero who became President. Webb was also a war hero in his own right and received the Medal of Honor for "distinguished gallantry" in the Philippines. He was also a close advisor to two Presidents. Read about this interesting historical figure.

May 3, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Teddy Roosevelt Jr. won the Medal of Honor for his "gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty" during the D-Day assault on Utah Beach at Normandy. In this article, we learn about the fascinating life and career of this worthy offspring of the original Rough Rider.

Apr 19, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Rutherford and Lucy Hayes moved into the White House in 1877. They had children ranging in age from six years old to adult. It was a lively White House. Their children went on to successful careers with many notable accomplishments, including one who received the Medal of Honor.

Apr 12, 2002 - John S. Cooper

The election of 1828 was possibly the nastiest and dirtiest campaign in our history. The strain of the bitter personal attacks may have led to the death of Rachel Jackson, and changed the wat our government functioned.,The election of 1828 was possibly the nastiest and dirtiest campaign in our history. The strain of the bitter personal attacks may have led to the death of Rachel Jackson, and changed the wat our government functioned.

Mar 22, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Rachel Jackson was by her husband's side throughout his military and political career, and was with him when he was elected President. But she died before his inauguration, and her death changed our government forever. Learn how.

Mar 15, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln, was indirectly involved in three Presidential assassinations. He is the only person to have been present at all three assassinations, and what's more, he was actually summoned to all three. See how he was drawn in to three of the most important events in our history.

Feb 22, 2002 - John S. Cooper

President James Buchanan, the only bachelor to live in the White House, turned to his niece to act as First Lady and official White House hostess. She was a great success, unlike her uncle, and she changed the standard of what was acceptable for a lady in politics.

Feb 8, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Hellen Herndon Arthur helped her husband become President, but never lived to enjoy the success. From all indications, she would have been an excellent and effective First Lady. Learn of her effect on her husband's career, and his amazing and tender dedication to her memory.

Jan 4, 2002 - John S. Cooper

Senator La Follette ran for President five times, but never won. He did capture 16.5% of the popular vote in 1924, but carried only one state. In this article, we will look at the presidential campaigns of this fascinating politician, and see how he affected our political history.

Dec 28, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Robert La Follette was the most effective progressives of the Progressive Era. Many of the reforms he fought for were enacted, including primaries, graduated income tax and regulation of corporations. Yet, he was his own worst enemy. In this article, we will examine this fascinating man's early career.

Dec 21, 2001 - John S. Cooper

William Miller served in Congress for fourteen years and served as the chairman of the Republican National Committee. He was also the Republican candidate for Vice President in 1964, Barry Goldwater's running mate. For all that, he is little remembered today. But he did make a very successful commercial.

Dec 14, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In the final article in this series, we examine the feud between President Truman and President Eisenhower. This feud got so nasty that it almost interferred with the inauguration. This classic feud involved personal charges of corruption, cowardice, and marital infidelity.

Dec 7, 2001 - John S. Cooper

A continuation from the previous article. The bitter personal and political feud between Teddy Roosevelt and William Howard Taft toe apart the Republican Party and changed history. In this article, we will see how it happened.

Nov 30, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Once close personal friends and political allies, their bitter feud tore apart the Republican Party and allowed a Democrat to capture the White House and change the course of history.

Nov 23, 2001 - John S. Cooper

The bitter political struggles during Reconstruction were the background for one of the shortest but most bitter political feuds in our history. Andrew Johnson and Ulysses S. Grant engaged in a very personal feud that resulted in Johnson refusing to attend Grant inauguration rather than having to ride in the same carriage with him. In this article, we examine this intense feud.

Nov 16, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Although the most exclusive "club" in American politics, not all of those who have lived in the White House have gotten along with each other. In fact, some have engaged in famous feuds. In this article, we examine the first two of these, and it is interesting to note that both included an Adams, John and his son John Quincy.

Nov 9, 2001 - John S. Cooper

George Herbert Walker Bush served only two short terms in the House of Representatives, but he gained valuable experience as a member of the powerful Ways and Means Committee. In this final article in the series, we will examine his brief Congressional career and learn why it came to a sudden end.

Nov 2, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Gerald Ford served for more than 24 in the House of Representatives, rising to be the leader of his party in the House. His reputation for hard work and honesty made him the first Vice President selected under the provisions of the 25th Amendment, and eventualy President of the United States. In this article, we examine his Congressional record.

Oct 26, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Richard Nixon was one of the most fascinating figures in our recent history. Although he served less than six years in Congress, his service there catapulted him to national prominence, and eventually to the White House. In this article, we will examine how his Congressional record led to his later historic actions.

Oct 19, 2001 - John S. Cooper

John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson both ahd extensive experience in both houses of Congress. This experience was extremely helpful as they both worked to pass ambitious social programs, especially landmark civil rights bills. In this article, we examine their congressional service.

Oct 12, 2001 - John S. Cooper

From the end of World War I to the end of World War II, all but one of our Presidents had little or no congressional experience. There seems to be little correlation between experience and presidential greatness. In this article, we examine the careers of our Presidents from Harding through Truman.

Oct 5, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Presidents Hayes, Garfield, Harrison and McKinley had considerable experience in Congress, which helped them when they were elected President. All of these Presidents were capable political leaders who accomplished many of their goals. In this article we will examine how their years in Congress related to their terms as President.

Sep 28, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In the years just after the Civil War, political experience made the difference between administrations that accomplished goals or ended in failure. Experience gained in Congress gave two of the three a chance. The third went down in history as one of our worst Presidents.

Sep 21, 2001 - John S. Cooper

The Presidents just before the Civil War were two of the most experienced political leaders of their time, yet they proved to be weak leaders, and two of our worst Presidents. Lincoln had almost no political experience, and yet went on to become probably our greatest President. Experience is not always an accurate predictor of Presidential greatness.

Sep 14, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Most of the Presidents in the first half of the 19th century served in Congress. In some cases, their service in Congress was a stepping-stone to the White House. In this article, we will examine the records of Martin Van Buren, William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, James K. Polk and Millard Fillmore.

Sep 7, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Most of our President gained valuable political experience serving in one or both houses of Congress. In this article, we will begin our look at the Congressional careers of the men who served in the White House.

Aug 31, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Presidential inaugurations have not always taken place on the day required by the Constitution. In this article, we will discover which Presidents intentionally violated the Constitution even before they took the oath of office and why they did so. Also, we will learn which Presidents deviated from tradition by having someone other than the Chief Justice administer the oath of office to them.

Aug 24, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Although most Presidential inaugurations follow the established traditions and customs, some have deviated significantly. Some have taken place in different places, on dates other than the one designated by the Contitution, and been presided over by officials other than the Chief Justice. We will examine these variations from the norm.

Aug 17, 2001 - John S. Cooper

The Presidents who served at the end of the 19th century compiled excellent records, which helped their political careers after the war. Some were genuine war heroes displaying courage and leadership on the battlefields. One served with ability and integrity at home. All showed the signs of leadership that made them President.

Aug 10, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Rutherford B. Hayes and James Garfield were genuine war heroes. Hayes was wounded four times, and had four horses shot out from under him in more than 50 battles. Garfield was cited for exceptional bravery at the Battle of Chickmauga. Both rose to the rank of major general, and were elected to Congress on the strength of their popularity as war heroes. The Civl War, and their records in it, made their careers and helped them get to the White House.

Aug 3, 2001 - John S. Cooper

From the end of the Civil War to the turn of the century, every President but one served in the Civil War. Some compiled exceptional records of ability and courage, rising through the ranks to high commands. Learn how they made a difference in this important sturggle, and how the experiences shaped their political fortunes afterwards.

Jul 27, 2001 - John S. Cooper

The tragedy of losing a child is even worse when it happens in the White House. This has happened to a several First Families, starting with the very first family to live there.

Jul 20, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Henry Clay had his final chance at the White House in 1844, and lost in a close race. His fluctuating position on Texas probably cost him the election. He continued to serve his country with perhaps his greatest contribution, the Compromise of 1850. This was Clay's greatest accomplishment and saved the Union.

Jul 13, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Henry Clay became the leader of the opposition to Jackson and the Democratic Party. In 1840, with his party almost guaranteed to win, he was denied the nomination. He got the nomination in 1844. While in the Senate, he crafted another Great Compomise which avoided armed conflict over the tariff issue and nullification.

Jul 6, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Henry Clay became Speaker of the House of Representatives his first day in Congress. He was a Senator before he was old enough to qualify. He crafted and sponsored several key compromises which prevented civil war. Yet, he never got the one thing he wanted most of all. He was never President.

Jun 29, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Henry Clay was the Presidential nominee of three different political parties during his career. His service to his country included a long career in Congress where he authored several important compromises which avoided armed conflict prior to the Civil War. But for all his honors, he never got the one he wanted most.

Jun 22, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Hannah Hoes Van Buren never served as First Lady, but she was the first and only true love of Martin Van Buren, 8th President of the United States. Without ever living in the White House, she had an influence on it through her husband and sons. Learn about the tragic life of this shy, charming lady.

Jun 15, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Although she was only First Lady for just over a year, the first wife of Woodrow Wilson had a significant effect on the position of First Lady. Wilson's second wife is more remembered, but the first one deserves to be remembered as well.

Jun 8, 2001 - John S. Cooper

It is rare that the team of President and Vice President is re-elected. Only eight times in our history have both people been re-elected together for a second term, six of those times have been in this century, and four of them in the last half-century. In this article, we examine this growing trend.

Jun 1, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Many people consider term limits necessary because of the unfair advantage enjoyed by incumbents. But many Presidents have been defeated when they ran for re-election. In this article, we will examine this group of ousted Presidents.

May 25, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Some of our greatest Presidents did not succeed on their first try for national office. Usually a person only gets one chance, but some of our best Presidents managed to get a second chance at winning a national election. See which ones came back from an initial failure to become a successful candidate.

May 18, 2001 - John S. Cooper

It is unusual for a candidate to lose his own home state, but it has happened more often than you might think. It is unavoidable when both candidates are from the same state, in which case one of them will lose his home state.

May 11, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In this article, we finish our conclude of presidential hobbies, sports, and leisures activities. There are a few surprises here, such as our oldest President chopping wood and some of the more unusual means of pysical fitness exercises.

May 4, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In this article, we continue our examination of presidential hobbies, sports and leisures activities. While most shared the same interests as the people they represented, some had very unusual interests.

Apr 27, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Like everyone else, Presidents have sports and hobbies to help them relax, escape the pressures of office, and stay healthy. Although opportunities for such relaxation seem difficult to come by in the White House, most Presidents have continued their favorite sports and hobbies.

Apr 20, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In this article, we examine some of the events of Julia Grant's tenure as First Lady, and how she forever changed the public role of the First Lady. This article is dedicated to the 4th grade students at St. Anthony School in Lorain, Ohio.

Apr 13, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Julia Dent Grant brought a new style to the White House and forever changed the role of First Lady. In the Gilded Age, she brought a new extravagant style of entertaining to the White House, and loved every minute of it. This article is dedicated to the 4th grade students at St. Anthony School in Lorain, Ohio.

Apr 6, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Madison ws the only two term President to have both of his Vice Presidents die in office. This is partly because of the change in how Vice Presidents were chosen brought about by the 12th Amendment to the Constitution.

Mar 30, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In this final article in the series, we examine the retirement of the most recent presidents. Some have continued to play a major role in politics, while others have limited their activities to the private or humanitarian sectors. The most recent ex-President has been very visible in both the political and private sectors.

Mar 23, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Presidents Coolidge, Hoover, Truman, and Eisenhower were extremely active after their terms as President ended. All continued to exercise leadership roles in their party, and all of them wrote books and articles which were widely read. In this article, we examine the role of these active and influential ex-presidents.

Mar 16, 2001 - John S. Cooper

The Presidents of the "Progressive Era" in the early 20th century continued to be active in the affairs of the nation after they left office. Two of them went on to have very successful careers after their Presidency.

Mar 9, 2001 - John S. Cooper

The Presidents at the end of the 19th century remained active in politics and civic affairs after they left the White House. A number of them served in other offices, one returning to Congress. In this article, we examine the records of the men who served at the end of the century.

Mar 2, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In this second article in the series, we continue to examine what each President did after they left the White House. This time we cover Presidents Jackson through Buchanan.

Feb 23, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Presidents have lives after they leave the White House. Many continued to serve their countries in positions of public service. This series of article will examine what the Presidents did after they left the White House. Some of their stories may surprise you.

Feb 16, 2001 - John S. Cooper

This past election was not the first time a "third party" candidate changed the outcome of the election. It happened over one hundred and fifty years ago. See how the Barnburners burned the Democratic Party before the Civil War.

Feb 9, 2001 - John S. Cooper

A surprising number of our Presidents have been members of more than one major political party during their careers. This has had a profound effect on elections and on our history. This articles follows these changes.

Feb 2, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Many of the classic presidential trivia questions now have new answers, thanks to some of our recent presidents. This article will help you amaze your friends with your knowledge and help prevent you from being stumped.

Jan 26, 2001 - John S. Cooper

There is one American Vice President not included in the lists of Vice Presidents in the history textbooks. Colorful and courageous, he is all but forgotten in most history textbooks. Read about the career of this cantankerous congressman.

Jan 19, 2001 - John S. Cooper

Benjamin Wade came within one vote of becoming the 19th President of the United States. As we hear about close elections, this article takes a look at the man who came closer to being President than any other person in our history.

Jan 12, 2001 - John S. Cooper

The final part of this article reviews Black Jack Logan's Civil War record and his political career in the years afterwards. In addition to his years in the House and the Senate, he founded and led the Grand Army of the Republic and started the custom of Memorial Day, which became a national holiday.

Jan 5, 2001 - John S. Cooper

In the first of a series of articles about men who ran for Vice President but lost, we look at John "Black Jack" Logan. He was a genuine war hero who changed political positions, philosophies and parties often during his career. In addition to his legislative career, he was a founder and three-time president of the Grand Army of the Republic and founded Memorial Day as a holiday to remember our war dead.

Dec 29, 2000 - John S. Cooper

This article looks at another person who turned down the Vice Presidency, only to see someone else become President when the elected President was assassinated. A leading banker, he served as a major fund-raiser for the Repubican Party.

Dec 22, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Everyone has been saying why we should abolish the Elecotral College. But there are reasons why we have kept it all these years, and why we will keep it for many years to come. This article will give you some of those reasons.

Dec 15, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Charles Fairbanks was Teddy Roosevelt's Vice Presdient. But had he not turned down the Vice Presidential nomination, he would have been President instead of Teddy. His revenge on Teddy created the Bull Moose campaign of 1912.

Dec 8, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The conclusion in the series of articles about Presidents in the military, this article looks at the Presidents this century, starting with the Spanish American War through World War II and into Viet Nam. Many of the recent Presidents served in the navy in World War II.

Dec 1, 2000 - John S. Cooper

This article looks at the Presidents after the Civil War, and their role in that conflict. All but one President from Lincoln until the end of the century served in the Civil War, many of them with distinction.

Nov 24, 2000 - John S. Cooper

This article examines the military service of the Presidents before the Civil War. Many served very short periods during emergencies, others were life-long professionals. One became our greatest wartime President.

Nov 17, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Most of our Presidents have served in uniform, although only a few are remembered for their military exploits. This article explores the records of those who have served.

Nov 10, 2000 - John S. Cooper

A number of Presidents have been teachers, professors, or college and unveristy presidents. Some will surprise you. In this election year, education is a major issue. See for yourself how many Presidents have experience in this vital profession.

Nov 3, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The conclusion of last week's article about Presidential pets. We start with the greatest animal keeper in White House history, Calvin Coolidge, and finish with President Bill Clinton.

Oct 27, 2000 - John S. Cooper

White House pets have included dogs, cats, birds, and more unusual animals such as alligators, zebras, hippos, lions, bobcats and wallabies. Read about these famous and infamous occupants of the White House.

Oct 20, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Electors do not have to vote for the candidate to whom they are pledged. They have the right, and even the duty, to vote for anyone they wish. A number of Electors have changed their vote over the years. What effect might such a change have on our electoral system? Read and find out.

Oct 13, 2000 - John S. Cooper

In this election year, the term "minority President" is often used in describing past election and past Presidents. Confusion is caused by the various and different definitions of this term. In this article, we learn the definitions, andlook at examples of each.

Oct 6, 2000 - John S. Cooper

President Calvin Coolidge and his wife had two children, both boys. Their youngest died in a freak accident when he was sixteen, and living inthe White House. Their eldest son avoided any publicity for the rest of his life.

Sep 29, 2000 - John S. Cooper

This generation of Tafts continue the family tradition of service to their community and nation. One almost became President.

Sep 22, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Rumors still circulate about how President Warren Harding really died. With the scandals, corruption, and other mysterious deaths connected to his administration, the rumors seem somewhat credible. Did his wife really kill him?

Sep 15, 2000 - John S. Cooper

James Monroe's two daughters are not well known, and never made names for themselves in their own right. But both played an important role in the life and times of President James Monroe.

Sep 8, 2000 - John S. Cooper

President William Henry Harrison had ten children. His grandson became the 23rd President in 1889. Six of his children died before him, and three others only lived a year or two after his death. Only one lived much longer after his death. Read about his interesting brood.

Sep 1, 2000 - John S. Cooper

More than a third of all Vice Presidents have become President. This alone makes the selection of this person very important. Learn who has moved up, and why we should take this person a little more seriously in the future.

Aug 25, 2000 - John S. Cooper

President Grover Cleveland had five children with his young wife, and took responsibility for an illegitimate child with Maria Halpin. This was the first truly public First Family, whose every move was watched and reported in th epress to a public eager for news of "their" family.

Aug 18, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Ticket balancing has always been an important factor in election strategies. This may not be the case this time. Take a quick look at the practice and history of ticket balancing in presidential elections.

Aug 11, 2000 - John S. Cooper

John Tyler had two wives and fifteen children, the last born when Tyler was 70 years old. Most lived quiet lives, but some became famous in their own right.

Aug 4, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The children of Abraham Lincoln occupied the White House during the excitement and drama of the Civil War. Only one of them lived to be an adult, but all lived interesting lives.

Jul 28, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The children of John Quincy Adams were an amazing collection of tragedy and success. They were part of a family legacy spanning more than five generations. One even helped keep our nation together during the Civil War and almost became the third member of his family to make it to the White House.

Jul 21, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The first in a series of articles on presidential children, this article looks at the children of Theodore Roosevelt. They enjoyed the White House, and went on to serve their country with distinction.

Jul 14, 2000 - John S. Cooper

James Monroe had an eventful presidency, and left his mark on history with the Monroe Doctrine. He was also the third president to die on the 4th of July.

Jul 7, 2000 - John S. Cooper

James Monroe was the last of the Virginia Dynasty elected to the White House. He was also the last Revolutionary War veteran to be elected President. This article traces his career from war hero to diplomat.

Jun 30, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Barry Goldwater lost his 1964 bid for the White House by a history-making landslide. He then went on to become an elder stateman of the Republican Party. His service to his country should be remembered more than his disasterous presidential campaign.

Jun 23, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Barry Goldwater built an long and distinguished career from a very inauspicious start. In this artilce, we review his early career, leading to his role as the leader of the soncervative wing of the Republican party, including his underdog race against the majority leader of the U.S. Senate.

Jun 16, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Hiram Johnson started as a progressive politican, and was Teddy Roosevelt's running mate on the Bull Moose ticket. He is also credited with defeating Charles Evans Hughes in 1916, and guaranteeing Woodrow Wilson's re-election. An staunch isolationist, he worked hard to prevent first the League of Nations and then the United Nations.

Jun 9, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Charles Francis Adams was much like his father and grandfather. He served his country well, but never achieved the high offices he would have filled so well. Learn how his service in the Civil War helped the Union win the war.

Jun 2, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The final article on Bryan looks at his role at the start of the 20th century. He was still a major power in the Democratic Party, and was once more the party nominee for President. We also get a look at the last major chapter in his public life, the Scopes "Monkey" Trial.

May 26, 2000 - John S. Cooper

William Jennings Bryan was one of only two men nomonated for president three times, and the only man to be runner-up three times. Read how he built the first modern Democratic Party coalition that elected Woodrow Wilson and Franklin Roosevelt.

May 19, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Al Smith, The Happy Warrior, was a leading figure in Democratic politics for several decades. He was also the first Catholic to win the presidential nomination of a major party, facing the same prejudice and problems that John Kennedy faced 32 years later.

May 12, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Many people refer to politicians in this manner, but John Charles Fremont really was an illegitimate child. See how his fame as an explorer almost made The Pathfinder President of the United States.

May 5, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The first in a series of articles about the forgotten runners-up, this is a look at Winfield Scott Hancock, also known as "Hancock the Superb" for his outstanding performance as a corps commander in the Civil War. This hero barely missed being the first Democratic President after the Civil War.

Apr 28, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Find out why they named a cupcake after her. She set the standard that all other First Ladies are measured by. And she really did save that painting of George Washington as the British soldiers marched on the White House.

Apr 21, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Part II continues to look at the remarkable role of Lou Hoover, this time at her term as First Lady. She broke some traditions and began new ones. She was well ahead of her times, and deserves much more credit than she gets in the history books.

Apr 14, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Lou Hoover lived a life of adventure, and led the way in several reform movements. She was a remarkable First Lady who received little credit for her good works. Learn more about this fascinating woman.

Apr 7, 2000 - John S. Cooper

More than anyone else, Edith Roosevelt created the modern position of First Lady. See how this remarkable woman changed the White House and its operation, as well as the way First Ladies have handled their responsibilities ever since.

Mar 31, 2000 - John S. Cooper

A quick look at how the President and Vice-President are really elected. Every voter should know how our Electoral College works and how it came about.

Mar 24, 2000 - John S. Cooper

"Cactus Jack" Garner worked his way up to Speaker of the House, and then agreed to become Vice President. He regretted the decision for the rest of his life. He also spoke out about his opinions of FDR and the Vice Presidency.

Mar 17, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Presidential rating polls are a regular part of election year activities. Look at a couple of polls and see how your opinions compare to the "experts."

Mar 10, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Read about what might have been the dirtiest campaign in election history. Bribery, graft, extra-marital affairs, illigitimate children and more were key issues in this election.

Mar 3, 2000 - John S. Cooper

The Presidential line of succession designates who takes over if both the President and Vice President die, resign or leave office. Learn who might become our next President.

Feb 25, 2000 - John S. Cooper

In early 1864, many Republicans thought Lincoln would not be re-elected. Lincoln agreed. Learn what happened to change everybody's opinion.

Feb 18, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Lucy Webb Hayes is remembered for banning liquor from the White House, earning her the nickname "Lemonade Lucy." Learn more about this fascinating First Lady.

Feb 11, 2000 - John S. Cooper

John Adams was a great man, but not everyone loved him. Take a personal look at John Adams and what some other leaders of the time thought of him.

Feb 4, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Ulysses S. Grant learned some important lessons early in life that helped make him a great historical figure. Examine these lessons and see the effect they had on our history.

Jan 28, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Charles Dawes had a lot going for him, but his Vice-Presidency got off to a bad start and never recovered. The only Vice-President to win a Nobel Peace Prize, he never made his peace with the members of the U.S. Senate. Read about the famous ride made by the great-great-grandson of William Dawes who rode with Paul Revere.

Jan 21, 2000 - John S. Cooper

John Tyler set the pattern for Vice-Presidents who assume the top spot when the elected President dies in office. It wasn't easy, and the nation owes him a debt of gratitude for his determination.

Jan 14, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Have we had a gay President or Vice President? Read this to find out. Parents are warned that some of this material may not be suitable for children.

Jan 7, 2000 - John S. Cooper

Several Presidents had trouble with the law. Find out which ones and what offenses they committed.

Dec 31, 1999 - John S. Cooper

Some eccentricities in the careers and personalities of our only (so far!) father-son presidents.

Dec 24, 1999 - John S. Cooper

William Howard Taft wanted to be Chief Justice, not President. What happened? Find out.

Dec 17, 1999 - John S. Cooper

Harry Truman defied all odds in winning his upset victory over Thomas Dewey in 1948. Every pollster predicted a big win for Dewey, and even Truman's own party agreed. Only Harry Truman knew better, and he showed them all!

Dec 10, 1999 - John S. Cooper

In 1936, Frankling Roosevelt's re-election did not appear certain to everyone. Some experts predicted he would lose. See why in this article.

Dec 3, 1999 - John S. Cooper

The first in a series about surpising election results looks at the upset victory of Woodrow Wilson in his 1916 campaign for re-election.

Nov 26, 1999 - John S. Cooper

A look at the three-way race between a current president, a past president, and a future president. One of the most interesting presidential campaigns in our history.

Nov 19, 1999 - John S. Cooper

In the closest election in our history, the man who received the most popular votes lost the election. For the only time in our history, an Electoral Commission decided the winner of the election.

Nov 12, 1999 - John S. Cooper

Edith Wilson took on extraordinary powers during the illness of her husband, Woodrow Wilson. Some even felt she was acting as president. Was she our first woman president?

Nov 5, 1999 - John S. Cooper

George Washington started his career as an officer in the Virginia militia, fighting as a British officer against the French. This article examines this little-known part of his military career.

Oct 29, 1999 - John S. Cooper

A continuation of the last article, this covers his years in the White House.

Oct 22, 1999 - John S. Cooper

A quick look at Teddy Roosevelt's career leading up to his presidency.

Oct 15, 1999 - John S. Cooper

A social dispute over one woman's virtue brought down the entire government. Never mind Clinton and company, this was a real scandal.

Oct 8, 1999 - John S. Cooper

A personal look at "Silent Cal" Coolidge

Sep 18, 1999 - John S. Cooper