If US Vice President Kamala Harris wins presidency, she would join a historical lineage of 15 vice presidents who have ascended to the nation’s highest office.
Let’s take a closer look at these vice presidents who later became presidents.
John Adams(1797–1801)
John Adams served as the first vice president under George Washington from 1789 to 1797. Known for his strong advocacy for independence and his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, Adams faced opposition during his presidency, particularly from Thomas Jefferson who went on to become his vice president.
Thomas Jefferson (1801–1809)
Thomas Jefferson was vice president under John Adams from 1797 to 1801. Jefferson is celebrated for his authorship of the Declaration of Independence. His presidency faced challenges, including the Embargo Act of 1807, which sought to avoid war but resulted in economic difficulties.
Martin Van Buren (1837–1841)
Serving under Andrew Jackson from 1833–1837, Martin Van Buren faced the Panic of 1837, which severely affected his presidency. Known for his role in the founding of the Democratic Party, he struggled with economic turmoil and opposition from the Whigs.
John Tyler (1841–1845)
John Tyler became president after William Henry Harrison’s death just one month into his term in 1841. Known for his strong stance on states' rights and expansionism, Tyler is the first vice president to become the president after the death of his predecessor.
Millard Fillmore (1850–1853)
Millard Fillmore succeeded Zachary Taylor after his death in 1850. His presidency is noted for the Compromise of 1850, which aimed to ease tensions between slave and free states. Fillmore's support for the Fugitive Slave Act alienated many in the North.
Andrew Johnson (1865–1869)
Andrew Johnson took office following Abraham Lincoln’s assassination in 1865. His presidency was marked by a struggle with Congress over Reconstruction policies and civil rights for freed slaves, leading to his impeachment by the House, though he was acquitted in the Senate.
Chester A Arthur (1881–1885)
Chester A Arthur became president after the assassination of James A Garfield. He is known for his surprising support of civil service reform, particularly the Pendleton Act, which changed how government jobs were filled.
Theodore Roosevelt (1901–1909)
Theodore Roosevelt assumed the presidency after the assassination of William McKinley. Known for his progressive reforms, including trust to busting and conservation efforts, Roosevelt’s dynamic leadership style set the stage for modern American politics.
Calvin Coolidge (1923–1929)
Calvin Coolidge became president following the death of Warren G Harding. Known for his pro to business policies and a belief in limited government, his presidency coincided with the Roaring Twenties, but he faced criticism for his lack of action on social issues.
Harry S Truman (1945–1953)
Harry S Truman succeeded Franklin D Roosevelt after his death. His presidency is noted for the Marshall Plan to aid European recovery post to WWII, the establishment of Nato, and the decision to use atomic bombs in Japan. He faced significant challenges, including the onset of the Cold War.
Lyndon B Johnson (1963–1969)
Lyndon B Johnson became president after the assassination of John F Kennedy. He is known for his Great Society programs, which aimed to eliminate poverty and racial injustice. His presidency was marred by the Vietnam War, leading to substantial protests and political opposition.
Richard Nixon (1969–1974)
Richard Nixon served as vice president under Dwight D Eisenhower. His presidency is often remembered for the Watergate scandal, which led to his resignation - the first president to do so. He is also known for his foreign policy achievements, including relations with China.
Gerald R Ford (1974–1977)
Gerald R Ford became president following Richard Nixon’s resignation due to the Watergate scandal. His presidency is noted for his efforts to restore public trust in the government and his controversial decision to pardon Nixon, which was met with significant backlash.
George HW Bush (1989–1993)
George HW Bush served as vice president under Ronald Reagan. His presidency is noted for the end of the Cold War, the Gulf War, and economic challenges that ultimately contributed to his defeat in the 1992 election.
Joe Biden (2021–present)
Joe Biden served as vice president under Barack Obama and is known for his extensive experience in foreign policy and domestic issues. His presidency has focused on addressing the Covid-19 pandemic, economic recovery, and social justice issues.
