America Turns 250: Meet The Presidents Who Changed The Nation Forever

From founding a republic to navigating wars, economic crises, and civil rights movements, these leaders helped shape the United States over the past 250 years.

America's presidents have faced wars, economic upheavals, social change, and global challenges. While history continues to debate their legacies, their decisions have collectively shaped the nation the United States is today.

As America's first president, George Washington laid the foundation for the country's democratic system. His leadership established key traditions that continue to guide the presidency more than two centuries later.

Thomas Jefferson dramatically expanded the young nation through the Louisiana Purchase, nearly doubling the size of the United States and opening the door to westward expansion.

Abraham Lincoln led the nation through the Civil War and issued the Emancipation Proclamation, paving the way for the abolition of slavery and preserving the Union during its greatest crisis.

Known for his progressive reforms, Theodore Roosevelt strengthened the federal government, championed conservation, and expanded America's influence on the global stage.

Woodrow Wilson reshaped the federal government with major economic reforms and guided the United States through the First World War, leaving a lasting impact on both domestic and foreign policy.

Facing the Great Depression and World War II, Franklin D. Roosevelt introduced the New Deal, expanded the role of the federal government, and led the nation through two defining global crises.

Harry Truman made pivotal decisions at the end of World War II and steered the United States into the Cold War, helping define America's role as a global superpower.

Lyndon B. Johnson oversaw landmark civil rights legislation, including the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, while launching ambitious social welfare programmes through his Great Society agenda.

Ronald Reagan's tax cuts, economic policies, and conservative vision reshaped American politics, influencing the country's direction for decades after his presidency.

George W. Bush's presidency was transformed by the September 11 attacks. His response, including the War on Terror and sweeping national security measures, redefined U.S. foreign and domestic policy in the 21st century.