President Dwight D. Eisenhower's Life and Legacy

Early Life of Dwight D. Eisenhower

Dwight D. Eisenhower, lovingly referred to as president Eisenhower, was born on October 14, 1890 in Denison, Texas. His family soon moved to Abilene, Kansas where Eisenhower spent his formative years. As a young boy, Eisenhower developed a strong work ethic helping support his family.

Eisenhower's Military Career

In 1911, Eisenhower entered the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1915 and went on to have a distinguished military career serving under Generals John J. Pershing, Douglas MacArthur and Walter Krueger.

When World War II began, Eisenhower was called to Washington D.C. to assist in planning the war effort. His immense organizational skills and leadership ability led him to quickly rise up the ranks. By 1942 Eisenhower became the Supreme Commander of the Allied forces in Europe.

Commanding D-Day & Liberation of Europe

As Supreme Allied Commander, Eisenhower was responsible for planning and carrying out the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. This remains the largest seaborne invasion in history.

The successful D-Day invasion was a major turning point in World War II. This led to the liberation of Paris in August of 1944. By May of 1945, the Allies had defeated Germany and Eisenhower accepted their official surrender.

Becoming President Eisenhower

After the war, president Eisenhower became the president of Columbia University. In 1951 he left that position to become the very first Supreme Commander of NATO forces in Europe. It was also during this time that the Republican party began wooing Eisenhower to run for president.

President Eisenhower's Elections

In 1952 Eisenhower ran for president as a Republican. His military hero status from World War II made him immensely popular. Eisenhower won the election in a landslide along with his vice-presidential running mate Richard Nixon.

As the incumbent in 1956, Eisenhower ran for re-election. This time with Richard Nixon again his vice-presidential running mate. Eisenhower won re-election, once more in a landslide.

Policies and Accomplishments

During his two terms, president Eisenhower oversaw a peaceful and prosperous time in America in the 1950s. Some of his accomplishments included:

• Signed the Civil Rights Act of 1957 which sought to protect voting rights
• Expanded social security and created new benefits for disabled Americans
• Began construction of the Interstate Highway System
• Oversaw the end of the Korean War

President Eisenhower also guided the United States through tense moments of the Cold War with the Soviet Union and saw Alaska and Hawaii become the 49th and 50th states.

Later Years and Legacy

After leaving the presidency in 1961, Eisenhower retired to his farm in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He remained active giving speeches and writing about his presidential and war experiences.

On March 28, 1969 at the age of 78, president Eisenhower passed away after a series of heart attacks. He left behind his beloved wife Mamie who he married in 1916.

President Eisenhower remains one of the most popular presidents in history. His strategic leadership and ability to work with allies led to victory in World War II. As president, his calm and thoughtful approach helped America prosper in the post-war era.

FAQs

Where was President Eisenhower from?

President Eisenhower was originally from Denison, Texas where he was born. His family moved to Abilene, Kansas when he was still a young child. Eisenhower considered Abilene his hometown.

What was President Eisenhower's role in World War 2?

Dwight D. Eisenhower served as the Supreme Allied Commander in Europe during World War 2. He was the commanding general responsible for planning and carrying out military operations, including the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944.

What major legislation did Eisenhower sign?

As president, Dwight D. Eisenhower signed several landmark pieces of legislation including the Civil Rights Act of 1957 to protect minority voting rights and legislation creating the Interstate Highway System across the United States.

When did President Eisenhower die?

After leaving office in 1961, Eisenhower retired to his farm in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He passed away on March 28, 1969 at the age of 78 due to heart disease.