U.S. Presidents / George W. Bush

Portrait of President George W. Bush

b. 1946

George W. Bush

Today, we affirm a new commitment to live out our nation's promise through civility, courage, compassion and character. America, at its best, matches a commitment to principle with a concern for civility. A civil society demands from each of us good will and respect, fair dealing and forgiveness. First Inaugural Address

Overview

George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States, led the country during a time of great challenge and change. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the global war on terror, the war in Iraq, and the economic downturn of 2008 are just some of the major events that Bush had to contend with during his time in office. At different times, President Bush was both the most popular president and one of the least popular presidents in American history, and his administration sparked both passionate defenders and vehement critics. His presidency will continue to be studied and debated for years to come. 

Fast Facts

George Walker Bush
New Haven, Connecticut
Yale (B.S., 1968), Harvard (M.B.A., 1975)
Methodist
Businessman, public official
Republican
"Dubya"
November 5, 1977, to Laura Welch
Barbara (1981); Jenna (1981)
43
Gary L. Gregg II

Chicago Style

Miller Center of Public Affairs, University of Virginia. “George W. Bush.” Accessed October 04, 2024. https://prod.millercenter.org/president/gwbush.

Professor

Gary L. Gregg II

Professor Gregg is the director of the McConnell Center at the University of Louisville. He also holds the Mitch McConnell Chair in leadership. The consulting editor wishes to thank Connor Tracy and Travis Wilson for serving as research assistants on this project.