William Howard Taft

Life & History

Early Life: William Howard Taft was born on September 15, 1857, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He came from a politically active family and attended Yale University before studying law.

Career Before Presidency: Taft held several important positions including judge, governor of the Philippines, and Secretary of War under President Theodore Roosevelt. He was known for his legal mind and administrative skills.

Presidency (1909–1913): Taft became the 27th President of the United States. He continued trust-busting efforts to break up monopolies and supported reforms, but his presidency saw divisions within the Republican Party.

Later Life: Taft later achieved his lifelong goal by becoming Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, the only person to serve as both President and Chief Justice. He died on March 8, 1930.