Presidential Power: The Epic Story of America's Highest Office

Theodore Roosevelt, the youngest President at just 42, took the oath of office with the solemn words “so help me God,” a tradition started by George Washington in New York City. One President was rumored to be inebriated during his swearing-in, while another heroically fought off an assassin. Another was considered “the handsomest man to ever hold the office.” Astonishingly, a quarter of all U.S. Presidential elections have been contested by the losing party. Philadelphians have a unique connection to the presidency. For a decade, this city served as the nation's capital. President John Adams was inaugurated here, and there were grand plans to establish Germantown as the site of the Capitol Building and the Executive Mansion. What led to the demise of this ambitious plan? As the nation approaches another Presidential election, this course will enlighten MALT scholars, delving into the rich history and formidable challenges of what many call the world’s hardest job.