The Presidency of George W. Bush

Overview

• George W. Bush served as the 43rd President of the United States from 2001 to 2009.
• His presidency is notably marked by the Global War on Terror and a significant economic recession.

Key Events

• September 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks:
  • Led to a shift in US foreign policy to a War on Terror.
  • Initiated two wars in the Middle East (Afghanistan and Iraq).
• Economic Downturn:
  • The housing market crash led to a severe economic recession in Bush's final years.

2000 Presidential Election

• Bush, a Republican, was previously the governor of Texas and the son of former President George H.W. Bush.
• The election was one of the closest in US history.
• Al Gore, the Democratic candidate, won the popular vote, but Bush won the Electoral College.
• The outcome hinged on Florida's controversial vote count, ending with the Supreme Court's decision in Bush v. Gore.

Foreign Policy

• Bush declared a Global War on Terror following 9/11.
• War in Afghanistan:
  • Targeted the Taliban regime for harboring al-Qaeda.
• Iraq War:
  • Aimed at overthrowing dictator Saddam Hussein amidst claims of weapons of mass destruction, which were never found.
• USA Patriot Act:
  • Expanded domestic surveillance and interrogation methods for counter-terrorism efforts.
  • Sparked debates about security vs. individual freedoms.

Domestic Policy

• Bush aimed to reform education, Social Security, and immigration.
• No Child Left Behind Act:
  • Sought to raise educational standards with bipartisan support.
• Prescription Drug Program:
  • Subsidized costs for the elderly, typically supported by Democrats.
• Despite conservative leanings, increased federal spending and implemented large tax cuts, doubling national debt to $10 trillion.
• Great Recession:
  • Triggered by the housing market crash, leading to economic interventions by the Federal Reserve and US Treasury.
  • Combined factors like tax cuts, spending, and war expenditures worsened the recession.

Discussion Topics

• Impact of 9/11 on US foreign policy.
• Bush's responsibility in the Great Recession.
• Significant events and policies of Bush's presidency.

References

• The article references works for further information on the 2000 election, September 11th, and Bush's presidency.