LBJ

On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, while riding in a motorcade. Lyndon B. Johnson, who was in a separate car with his wife Lady Bird Johnson, was thrust into a pivotal moment in American history as the nation mourned the loss of its leader.

Lyndon B. Johnson was aware of his status as a second-in-command under JFK, feeling overshadowed by the President's popularity. Despite his political ambitions, LBJ's relationship with Texas Senator Ralph Yarborough, who opposed him, added to his frustrations as he grappled with his role in the administration.

During a hunting trip, Robert F. Kennedy asked LBJ if he planned to run for President, to which LBJ denied any interest. Unbeknownst to him, campaign posters announcing his candidacy were already being put up across Texas, leading to LBJ's anger and reluctance to accept the race.

After losing to JFK in the Democratic primaries, LBJ was unexpectedly offered the Vice Presidency by JFK, who believed LBJ could secure Southern votes. Against the advice of his team, LBJ accepted the role, facing risks of diminished power compared to his previous position as Senate majority leader.

Tasked with chairing the Federal Equal Employment committee, LBJ aimed to bridge the divide between Northerners and Southerners regarding job equality for African Americans. His strategic persuasion of key senators and contractors showed his intent to foster mutual cooperation despite regional tensions.

By 1962 and 1963, civil rights issues escalated in the United States, with protests in Southern states facing violent backlash. LBJ advocated for federal contracts to be awarded only to progressive states, ultimately convincing JFK to implement guidelines that encouraged mixed workforces in Southern states.

JFK sought to introduce a comprehensive Civil Rights bill to Congress, which was met with fierce opposition from Senator Richard Russell and others. LBJ, understanding the political landscape, advised JFK to delay the bill, knowing it could marginalize his influence in the administration.

Following JFK's assassination, LBJ took the presidential oath of office, administered by Sarah Hughes in front of Jackie Kennedy. LBJ's calm demeanor and respect for Jackie marked a significant moment as he immediately set out to command leadership during a time of national turmoil.

Senator Richard Russell and the Southern Senate delegation celebrated LBJ's ascension as a Southern President. However, tensions arose as LBJ moved to have JFK's staff removed, further alienating those who viewed LBJ as an intruder in the Kennedy legacy.

Determined to continue JFK’s legacy, LBJ threw his support behind the Civil Rights legislation. He engaged with Congress, leveraging his political skills to gather votes, including securing support from Senator Ralph Yarborough despite earlier tensions, showcasing his ability to unite divided factions.

LBJ delivered a powerful address to a joint session of Congress, articulating his commitment to civil rights and the nation’s healing. This speech served as both a tribute to JFK and a declaration of LBJ's own agenda, setting the stage for his presidency.

On July 2, 1964, LBJ signed the Civil Rights Act into law, marking a historic step towards equality in the United States. This landmark legislation had far-reaching effects on civil rights and reshaped the political landscape of the country.

On November 3, 1964, LBJ was re-elected as President, achieving the largest electoral margin since 1820. Winning 44 states, this victory solidified his position and allowed him to advance his ambitious progressive agenda.

In his subsequent term, LBJ enacted several key programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Voting Rights Act, shaping American social policy. His presidency was defined by aggressive reforms aimed at addressing systemic inequalities and healthcare access.

On March 31, 1968, amid escalating challenges from within his party and the Vietnam War, LBJ shocked the nation by announcing he would not run for re-election. This decision marked him as the last sitting President who chose to exit the political arena without seeking a second full term.