The presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson was a pivotal time in American history, marked by significant social change and political upheaval. One of the most intriguing aspects of his administration is the role of his vice president. Understanding who President Johnson's vice president was not only provides insight into his administration but also sheds light on the broader political climate of the 1960s.
In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Hubert H. Humphrey, who served as Vice President under Lyndon B. Johnson. We will explore his background, political philosophy, and the significant events that occurred during his vice presidency. Furthermore, we will discuss his legacy and the impact he had on American politics.
By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of Hubert H. Humphrey's role in Johnson's administration and how he shaped the policies of the time. Let's embark on this journey through history and uncover the contributions of Johnson's vice president.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Hubert H. Humphrey
- Early Life and Education
- Political Career Before Vice Presidency
- Vice Presidency under Lyndon B. Johnson
- The Great Society and Civil Rights
- Post-Vice Presidency and Legacy
- Conclusion
- Sources
Biography of Hubert H. Humphrey
Hubert Horatio Humphrey was born on May 27, 1911, in Wallace, South Dakota. He became a significant figure in American politics, serving as the 38th Vice President of the United States from 1965 to 1969 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Humphrey is often remembered for his advocacy of civil rights and social justice.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hubert Horatio Humphrey |
| Birth Date | May 27, 1911 |
| Death Date | January 13, 1978 |
| Political Party | Democratic |
| Vice Presidency | 1965 - 1969 |
Early Life and Education
Humphrey was raised in a family that valued education and public service. He attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned a degree in political science in 1939. His early involvement in politics began as a member of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, where he worked to promote progressive policies.
Key Early Influences
- Family Values: Emphasis on education and civic duty.
- College Involvement: Active in student government and political organizations.
- World War II: Served in the Army Air Corps, which strengthened his commitment to public service.
Political Career Before Vice Presidency
Before becoming vice president, Humphrey had an extensive political career. He served as the Mayor of Minneapolis from 1945 to 1948, where he gained a reputation for his progressive policies and commitment to civil rights.
Major Political Achievements
- Advocated for the establishment of the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.
- Worked on housing initiatives to improve living conditions for low-income residents.
- Served as a U.S. Senator from Minnesota from 1949 to 1964, where he championed civil rights legislation.
Vice Presidency under Lyndon B. Johnson
Hubert Humphrey was appointed Vice President after Johnson assumed office following the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963. His role as vice president was marked by his close collaboration with Johnson on significant legislative initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Actively participated in the creation of the Great Society programs.
- Served as Johnson's liaison to Congress, advocating for the administration's agenda.
- Promoted civil rights and social welfare legislation.
The Great Society and Civil Rights
The Great Society was a series of domestic programs launched by President Johnson aimed at eliminating poverty and racial injustice in the United States. Humphrey played a vital role in promoting these initiatives, which included landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Significant Legislative Achievements
- Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
- Voting Rights Act of 1965: Aimed to eliminate barriers to voting for African Americans.
- Medicare and Medicaid: Provided healthcare coverage for the elderly and low-income individuals.
Post-Vice Presidency and Legacy
After leaving office in 1969, Humphrey continued to be active in politics and public service. He ran for president in 1968 but lost to Richard Nixon. Despite the defeat, Humphrey remained a respected figure in the Democratic Party and continued to advocate for civil rights and social justice until his death in 1978.
Humphrey's Lasting Impact
- Strengthened the Democratic Party's commitment to civil rights.
- Influenced future generations of politicians with his progressive vision.
- Left a legacy of compassion and dedication to public service.
Conclusion
Hubert H. Humphrey's role as Vice President under Lyndon B. Johnson was instrumental in shaping the trajectory of American politics during the 1960s. His commitment to civil rights and social justice left a lasting legacy that continues to resonate today. Understanding who President Johnson's vice president was provides valuable insight into the complexities and challenges of that era.
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Sources
- U.S. Senate Historical Office - Hubert H. Humphrey
- American History Association - The Great Society Programs
- National Archives - Civil Rights Act of 1964
