Bill Clinton was the 42nd president of the United States.
Elected in 1992 and reelected in 1996.
First Democratic president to serve two terms since Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Focused on economic growth and reducing federal budget deficit.
Impeached for lying about an affair with Monica Lewinsky during his second term.
Left office with the highest post-WWII approval rating for a US president.
Bill Clinton's Rise to Power
Born William Jefferson Blythe III in 1946, Hope, Arkansas. Adopted his stepfather's surname, Clinton.
Attended Georgetown University, Rhodes scholar at Oxford, law degree at Yale.
Served as Attorney General and then as Governor of Arkansas.
Became a leader of the New Democrats.
Won the 1992 presidential election against George H.W. Bush and Ross Perot.
Reelected in 1996.
Clinton's First Term (1993-1997)
Ambitious domestic agenda focused on economic growth.
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993: Raised taxes on wealthiest 1.2%, cut taxes for small businesses and lower-income workers, required balanced federal budget.
Failed healthcare reform due to opposition from Republicans and industry groups.
North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) signed, benefiting US, Canada, and Mexico.
Clinton's Second Term (1997-2001)
Reelected in 1996, but second term marred by scandal.
Impeached for perjury and obstruction of justice related to affair with Monica Lewinsky.
Impeachment process:
Impeachment by the House.
Senate trial, but acquitted and not removed from office.
Despite scandal, maintained high approval ratings.
Important Notes and Resources
Impeachment is a Congressional process to hold executive accountable.
Only two presidents, Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton, have been impeached.
Clinton's presidency saw both achievements and controversial events.
Discussion Points
Clinton's achievements and shortcomings as president.
His continued popularity despite scandals.
Additional Resources
Learn more about NAFTA in "Understanding NAFTA" by William A. Orme, Jr.
"The Breach: Inside the Impeachment and Trial of William Jefferson Clinton" by Peter Baker.
"The Survivor: Bill Clinton in the White House" by John F. Harris.