The Most Impactful Vice Presidents in US History
Throughout American history, the role of Vice President (VP) has often seemed trivial. Most VPs have been mere footnotes, serving as successors to their presidents or presiding over the Senate. However, there have been a few VPs whose actions and decisions had a profound impact on the country, changing the course of history.
John Tyler: A Precedent Setter
John Tyler is often nominated for the most eventful VP. Upon President William Henry Harrison's death, Tyler became the first VP to take up the role of President. His move set a precedent that VPs could become President, even though many believed this role was not worth considering. Tyler's assumption of the presidency was controversial, leading to a significant shift in American politics.
Gerald Ford: The Role of Vice President in Responsivity to Crisis
Gerald Ford is another VP who left a significant mark on history. When President Richard Nixon resigned in the midst of the Watergate scandal, Ford took over the role of President. His ascension was remarkable and set a precedent for VPs to assume the presidency in the event of a resignation. Ford's strict adherence to articles of impeachment helped stabilize the nation and show the strength of the American system of checks and balances.
Harry S. Truman: The Man After the Fall
Harry S. Truman is arguably the most impactful VP since World War II. After serving as VP under Franklin D. Roosevelt, Truman assumed the presidency when FDR died. As President, Truman made several crucial decisions, including the use of atomic bombs in Japan, which ended World War II. His handling of the growing Cold War and his promotion of the Truman Doctrine also played a significant role in shaping American and global politics.
Lyndon B. Johnson: Policy and Legislatively Driven Leadership
LBJ's vice presidency is synonymous with significant legislative accomplishments. As VP, Johnson was instrumental in pushing through several key pieces of legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These laws had a profound impact on American society, leading to major advancements in civil rights and racial equality. His leadership in these initiatives has left an indelible mark on American history.
Richard B. Cheney: The VP in Crisis Management
Richard B. Cheney is another vice president who played a pivotal role during a critical event. As VP under George W. Bush, Cheney was in de facto command of the armed forces during the 9/11 attacks. His decisions and guidance, along with those of President Bush, significantly influenced the unfolding of the War on Terror. Cheney's involvement in the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq further highlighted his influence on national security policy.
Joe Biden: Transforming the VP Role
Joe Biden, the current VP, has arguably transformed the role of the VP into that of a consequential position. Under President Barack Obama, Biden played a central role in several key initiatives, such as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. This act was the largest economic recovery plan in U.S. history, helping to rebuild the American economy and save the automotive industry. During the Great Recession, Biden worked on brokered Senate negotiations to pass the Budget Control Act of 2011, which helped sidestep a government shutdown.
Biden's role also extended to humanitarian efforts. In 2014, he led a review of federal employment and training programs, retooling $1.5 billion in grants to align with job-driven training best practices. Additionally, Biden played a crucial role in the passage of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), ensuring health coverage for Americans with pre-existing conditions and providing healthcare to 20 million previously uninsured individuals. He also launched the "Cancer Moonshot" initiative in 2016, aiming to accelerate efforts to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer.
Conclusion
While many VPs have been significant due to their role in becoming President, others have had a lasting impact on American history. From the precedent-setting Tyler, the crisis-response focused Ford, the policy-driven LBJ, the war-influencing Cheney, to the modern-day Biden, each VP has left an indelible mark on the United States. Their actions and decisions continue to shape the course of American history.