This is an authoritative history of the American Presidency, shown in more than 460 photographs and illustrations. It is an analysis of the politicians, statesmen and private individuals, and their lasting legacies that have helped shape the course of history. It is an insightful guide to the role of president from that envisaged by the Founding Fathers of America to the extensive executive powers of the political office today. Each president is presented within the context of major social, political and economic events and developments that have helped to shape the course of world history. Feature boxes present all the facts about each president, including their social, political, and religious backgrounds. It contains more than 460 stunning photographs, fine art paintings, contemporary sketches, artworks and maps. This unparalleled reference book is a powerful guide to the 44 incumbents who have held the highest-ranking political office in the United States' government. An amazing collection of photographs, paintings, sketches, election posters and documents illustrate this authoritative volume. Opening with George Washington, the book provides an in-depth analysis of each US president. Many presidents have shaped world history - Abraham Lincoln and the abolition of slavery, Roosevelt and the Panama Canal, the assassination of Kennedy. Key facts about every president, their term in office and their life stories are presented in domestic and international context.