50 Facts About President William Howard Taft

Early Life and Education

William Howard Taft, the 27th President of the United States, had a fascinating early life and education that shaped his future.

1. Born on September 15, 1857, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Taft was the son of a prominent lawyer and politician.
2. He attended Yale College, where he graduated second in his class in 1878.
3. After Yale, Taft studied law at the Cincinnati Law School, earning his degree in 1880.
4. Taft was a member of the Skull and Bones secret society at Yale, which included many future influential leaders.
5. He was known for his athleticism, playing baseball and wrestling during his college years.

Political Career Before Presidency

Before becoming President, Taft held various significant positions in the government.

6. Taft served as a judge on the Ohio Superior Court from 1887 to 1890.
7. In 1890, President Benjamin Harrison appointed him Solicitor General of the United States.
8. Taft became a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in 1892.
9. He was appointed Governor-General of the Philippines by President William McKinley in 1901.
10. Taft served as Secretary of War under President Theodore Roosevelt from 1904 to 1908.

Presidency (1909-1913)

Taft's presidency was marked by significant events and policies that left a lasting impact.

11. Taft was inaugurated as President on March 4, 1909.
12. He was the first President to own a car, which was a White Motor Company steam car.
13. Taft established the United States Postal Savings System in 1910.
14. He signed the Payne-Aldrich Tariff Act, which aimed to lower tariffs but ended up being controversial.
15. Taft created the Bureau of Mines to oversee mineral resources and improve mine safety.
16. He was the first President to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a Major League Baseball game.
17. Taft supported the 16th Amendment, which allowed Congress to levy an income tax.
18. He was known for his trust-busting efforts, filing 80 antitrust suits during his presidency.
19. Taft expanded the civil service system, reducing the number of patronage jobs.
20. He signed the Arizona and New Mexico statehood bills, making them the 47th and 48th states.

Post-Presidency and Supreme Court

After his presidency, Taft continued to serve the country in various capacities.

21. Taft taught law at Yale University after leaving the White House.
22. In 1921, President Warren G. Harding appointed Taft as Chief Justice of the United States.
23. Taft is the only person to have served as both President and Chief Justice.
24. As Chief Justice, he advocated for the construction of the Supreme Court Building, which was completed after his death.
25. Taft served as Chief Justice until his retirement in 1930 due to declining health.

Personal Life and Legacy

Taft's personal life and legacy offer a glimpse into the man behind the political figure.

26. Taft married Helen Herron in 1886, and they had three children together.
27. He was known for his large stature, weighing over 300 pounds during his presidency.
28. Taft once got stuck in the White House bathtub and had a larger one installed afterward.
29. He was an avid golfer and often played to relieve stress.
30. Taft was a Unitarian, attending All Souls Church in Washington, D.C.
31. He was the first President to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
32. Taft's legacy includes his contributions to the judicial system and his efforts to improve government efficiency.
33. He was a strong advocate for world peace and supported the League of Nations.
34. Taft's presidency is often overshadowed by his predecessor, Theodore Roosevelt, and his successor, Woodrow Wilson.
35. Despite this, historians recognize his significant contributions to American law and governance.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Taft that highlight his unique personality and interests.

36. Taft was the last President to have a mustache while in office.
37. He was a huge fan of baseball and attended many games during his presidency.
38. Taft once fell asleep during a parade and had to be woken up by an aide.
39. He was known for his love of food, particularly steak and potatoes.
40. Taft was the first President to use the Oval Office, which was completed during his term.
41. He had a custom-made bathtub installed on the USS North Carolina to accommodate his size.
42. Taft was a member of the American Bar Association and served as its president.
43. He was a prolific writer, authoring several books on law and politics.
44. Taft was a strong supporter of civil rights and worked to improve race relations during his presidency.
45. He was known for his sense of humor and often made jokes about his weight.
46. Taft's favorite vacation spot was Hot Springs, Virginia, where he enjoyed the natural hot springs.
47. He was an honorary member of the Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity.
48. Taft's nickname was "Big Bill" due to his large size and towering presence.
49. He was a dedicated public servant, often working long hours and weekends.
50. Taft's legacy continues to influence American politics and law, making him a significant figure in U.S. history.

Taft's Legacy in a Nutshell

William Howard Taft's presidency left a lasting mark on American history. Known for his unique role as both President and Chief Justice, Taft's contributions to the judicial system were significant. His efforts in trust-busting and tariff reform showcased his commitment to progressive policies. Despite facing criticism during his presidency, Taft's later work in the Supreme Court earned him respect and admiration.

Taft's personal life also adds an interesting layer to his legacy. From his love for baseball to his infamous bathtub incident, these tidbits make him a relatable figure. His dedication to public service, combined with his human quirks, paints a well-rounded picture of a man who shaped the nation in more ways than one.

Understanding Taft's multifaceted legacy helps us appreciate the complexities of leadership and the impact one individual can have on a country's trajectory.