Lyndon Baines Johnson

Lyndon B. Johnson (1908-1973) assumed the United States presidency in 1963 following the assassination of John F. Kennedy and secured re-election in 1964. Known for his ambitious "Great Society" programs, Johnson pushed through landmark legislation aimed at reducing poverty, expanding civil rights, and improving education and healthcare. His presidency was also marked by the escalation of the Vietnam War, which increasingly divided the country and led to widespread protests. Despite his domestic successes, Johnson’s approval plummeted due to the war, leading him to decline running for re-election in 1968.