William Howard Taft
William Howard Taft: 27th President of the United States
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Full Name and Common Aliases
William Howard Taft was born on September 15, 1857, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is often referred to as the "Big Fellow" due to his large stature.
Birth and Death Dates
Taft passed away on March 8, 1930, at the age of 72, after a long battle with heart disease.
Nationality and Profession(s)
William Howard Taft was an American politician who served as the 27th President of the United States from 1909 to 1913. Prior to his presidency, he held various public offices including Governor-General of the Philippines (1901-1904) and Secretary of War under Theodore Roosevelt (1904-1908).
Early Life and Background
Taft was born into a prominent family in Cincinnati. His father, Alphonso Taft, served as Secretary of War during President Ulysses S. Grant's administration. William Howard Taft graduated from Yale University in 1878 and later earned his law degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Major Accomplishments
As President, Taft focused on domestic policies such as trust-busting, which involved breaking up large corporations that held too much power. He also signed the Payne-Aldrich Tariff Act (1909), which raised tariffs on imported goods. Another notable achievement was his appointment of several justices to the Supreme Court, including the infamous case of _Buck v. Bell_ (1927).
Notable Works or Actions
Taft is perhaps best known for his role in shaping the United States' relationship with the Philippines during his tenure as Governor-General. He advocated for a more lenient approach towards Philippine independence and implemented several reforms aimed at improving the country's governance.
Impact and Legacy
During his presidency, Taft faced opposition from progressive Republicans who sought to implement more radical policies under Roosevelt's leadership. However, Taft managed to secure some notable legislative victories, including the passage of the Federal Mine Safety Act (1910). Despite his accomplishments, Taft's presidency was ultimately marked by a lack of popular support and internal party strife.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
William Howard Taft is often remembered for his commitment to trust-busting and his efforts to shape the United States' foreign policy. His quotes on governance and leadership offer valuable insights into the importance of effective administration and the role of government in society. As a leading figure in American politics during the early 20th century, Taft's life and career serve as an important reminder of the complexities and challenges facing public leaders.
In his own words, "There is nothing that can better be given to an opponent than one's word." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates Taft's dedication to integrity and honesty in politics. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern governance, Taft's wisdom remains a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the importance of trust and accountability in public life.
The quotes attributed to William Howard Taft on this site offer a glimpse into his thoughts on leadership, governance, and the role of government in society. From his time as President to his later years as a historian and scholar, Taft's legacy serves as a reminder that true leadership requires integrity, compassion, and a commitment to serving the greater good.
Quotes by William Howard Taft
William Howard Taft's insights on:
The day is not far distant when three Stars and Stripes at three equidistant points will mark our territory: one at the North Pole, another at the Panama Canal, and the third at the South Pole. The whole hemisphere will be ours in fact as, by virtue of our superiority of race, it already is ours morally.
Don’t worry over what the newspapers say. I don’t. Why should anyone else? I told the truth to the newspaper correspondents – but when you tell the truth to them they are at sea.
We can’t have a decent government unless those in power exercise self restraint.
I know how irritating it is to have somebody else lay down rules for your moral uplift, but you’ve got to stand a great deal in order to make progress...
There is no “but” in it. The way to be an administration Senator is to vote with the Administration.
The judiciary has fallen to a very low state in this country. I think your part of the country has suffered especially. The federal judges of the South are a disgrace to any country, and I’ll be damned if I put any man on the bench of whose character and ability there is the least doubt.
I don’t know whither we are drifting, but I do know where every real thinking patriot will stand in the end, and that’s by the Constitution.
I think I might as well give up being a candidate. There are so many people in the country who don’t like me.
I’ll be damned if I am not getting tired of this. It seems to be the profession of a President simply to hear other people talk.