50 Facts About President Calvin Coolidge

Early Life and Education

Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States, had a fascinating life before his presidency. Here are some intriguing facts about his early years and education.

1. Born on July 4, 1872, in Plymouth Notch, Vermont, Coolidge is the only U.S. president born on Independence Day.
2. His full name was John Calvin Coolidge Jr., named after his father.
3. Coolidge's father, John Calvin Coolidge Sr., was a storekeeper and public servant, holding various local offices.
4. He attended Black River Academy and later Amherst College in Massachusetts, where he graduated with honors in 1895.
5. At Amherst, Coolidge was known for his quiet demeanor and strong work ethic, traits that would define his political career.
6. He studied law under a local attorney and was admitted to the bar in 1897 without attending law school.

Political Career Beginnings

Coolidge's political journey started at the local level and gradually moved up the ranks. Here are some key moments from his early political career.

7. Coolidge began his political career in Northampton, Massachusetts, serving on the city council in 1898.
8. He was elected as the city solicitor of Northampton in 1900, a position he held for two years.
9. In 1904, Coolidge became the clerk of courts for Hampshire County.
10. He served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1907 to 1908.
11. Coolidge was elected mayor of Northampton in 1910 and served until 1911.
12. He then moved on to the Massachusetts State Senate, where he served from 1912 to 1915.
13. In 1915, Coolidge became the lieutenant governor of Massachusetts, serving until 1918.
14. He was elected governor of Massachusetts in 1918, gaining national attention for his handling of the Boston Police Strike in 1919.

Presidency

Coolidge's presidency is often remembered for its focus on business and limited government intervention. Here are some notable facts about his time in office.

15. Coolidge became president on August 3, 1923, following the sudden death of President Warren G. Harding.
16. He was sworn in by his father, a notary public, in the family home in Vermont.
17. Coolidge is known for his laissez-faire approach to government, believing that less government intervention would lead to economic prosperity.
18. His presidency saw significant economic growth, known as the "Roaring Twenties."
19. Coolidge signed the Immigration Act of 1924, which limited the number of immigrants allowed into the United States.
20. He was the first president to address the nation via radio, making him a pioneer in using new technology to communicate with the public.
21. Coolidge signed the Revenue Act of 1924, which reduced federal income tax rates.
22. He was known for his frugality and often cut government spending.
23. Coolidge chose not to run for a second full term in 1928, stating that "the chances of having wise and faithful public service are increased by a change in the presidential office after a moderate length of time."

Personal Life and Legacy

Coolidge's personal life and legacy continue to be subjects of interest. Here are some lesser-known facts about his life outside of politics.

24. Coolidge married Grace Anna Goodhue in 1905, and they had two sons, John and Calvin Jr.
25. Grace Coolidge was known for her charm and social grace, balancing her husband's reserved nature.
26. Their younger son, Calvin Jr., died of blood poisoning in 1924, a tragedy that deeply affected Coolidge.
27. Coolidge was a man of few words, earning him the nickname "Silent Cal."
28. Despite his quiet demeanor, he had a dry sense of humor and was known for his witty remarks.
29. Coolidge was an avid reader and enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing and horseback riding.
30. After leaving the presidency, he retired to Northampton, Massachusetts, where he wrote his autobiography and several articles.
31. Coolidge died on January 5, 1933, at the age of 60 from a heart attack.
32. He is buried in Plymouth Notch Cemetery in Vermont, near his birthplace.

Interesting Tidbits

Coolidge's life was filled with unique and interesting moments that often go unnoticed. Here are some fun facts that highlight his unique personality and presidency.

33. Coolidge had a pet raccoon named Rebecca, which was originally intended to be part of a Thanksgiving meal but was spared and kept as a pet instead.
34. He was the first president to have his inauguration broadcast on radio.
35. Coolidge was known for his love of animals and had several pets, including dogs, birds, and even a bobcat.
36. He was a fan of practical jokes and once rang all the White House servants' bells at the same time just to see what would happen.
37. Coolidge was the first president to light the National Christmas Tree on the White House lawn.
38. He was known for his naps and often took a long afternoon nap every day.
39. Coolidge had a mechanical horse installed in the White House, which he used for exercise.
40. He was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity during his time at Amherst College.
41. Coolidge was known for his distinctive fashion sense, often wearing a black hat and a morning coat.
42. He was a devout Congregationalist and attended church regularly.
43. Coolidge was the only president to have his face on a coin during his lifetime, appearing on the Sesquicentennial of American Independence half-dollar in 1926.
44. He was a strong advocate for civil rights and spoke out against lynching and racial discrimination.
45. Coolidge was known for his love of breakfast and often ate a large meal to start his day.
46. He was a skilled public speaker and often used humor to connect with his audience.
47. Coolidge was a supporter of women's suffrage and believed in equal rights for women.
48. He was known for his handwritten letters, often writing personal notes to friends and family.
49. Coolidge was a fan of baseball and often attended games during his presidency.
50. He was known for his modesty and often downplayed his achievements, preferring to let his actions speak for themselves.

Coolidge's Legacy in a Nutshell

Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States, left a lasting mark on American history. Known for his quiet demeanor and conservative policies, Coolidge championed limited government and economic growth. His presidency saw the Roaring Twenties, a period of prosperity and innovation. Despite his reserved nature, Coolidge's commitment to public service and integrity earned him respect. He believed in individual responsibility and fiscal conservatism, which influenced future leaders. Coolidge's emphasis on honesty and efficiency in government remains relevant today. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of principled leadership and dedication to the nation's well-being. Whether admired for his policies or his character, Coolidge's impact on the presidency and the country endures.