The Growth of Presidential Power in the U.S.

George Washington (1789-1797): First U.S. president, aware of every action shaping the office for future generations; established precedents such as the use of "Mr. President" title, setting a two-term limit, and modeling the executive branch

Washington's great dignity lent power to the presidency; he issued the first veto, put down the Whiskey Rebellion, and established the cabinet, appointed department heads, judges, and signed the first laws

Andrew Jackson (1829-1837): First president elected by "the people," saw himself as their champion against Congress; used the veto power extensively, often due to policy disagreements; vetoed 12 bills in total, more than all previous presidents combined; most famous veto involved the National Bank of the United States

Lincoln (1861-1865): Became one of the most powerful presidents due to the Civil War crisis; seven southern states had seceded before he took office; Lincoln expanded presidential power through his decisions during the Civil War, including the Emancipation Proclamation and the use of martial law.

Abraham Lincoln's inaugural speech in 1861: argues for the unity of the Union, no state can lawfully secede, and intends to uphold the Constitution and execute laws

Lincoln takes executive actions without Congress' approval: spends money, raises an army, orders a navy blockade, declares martial law, shuts down secessionist newspapers, suspends habeas corpus, and issues the Emancipation Proclamation

Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909) becomes a "bully pulpit" president: uses the presidency as a platform to speak out on issues, garners media attention, and believes in acting as a "steward of the public welfare"

Roosevelt creates new government agencies: ensures food and drug safety, promotes conservation, and pursues an active foreign policy

Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933-1945) transforms the presidency: comes into office during the Great Depression, passes major reforms during his first 100 days, expands the role of the president in shaping laws, and engages with the public through "fireside chats"

Lincoln's actions during the Civil War set a precedent for assertive presidential power

Theodore Roosevelt's energetic leadership inspires FDR's presidency and expands the role of the president as the modern presidency

FDR's New Deal reforms during the Great Depression and World War II further expand the executive power, shifting the president's role from chief clerk to a more active, engaging leader.