We The People: How Many Presidents Were Really From the Base?

The United States of America is often referred to as the land of opportunity, where anyone can achieve the American Dream through hard work and determination. This idea is embodied in the phrase “We the People,” which is the opening line of the United States Constitution. It signifies that the power of the government comes from the people, and that the government should serve the interests of the people. However, throughout history, there have been debates about how representative the government truly is of the people it serves. In particular, there have been questions about how many presidents were truly “from the base,” meaning they came from humble beginnings and understood the struggles of the common people. In this article, we will explore this topic and examine how many presidents can be considered “from the base.”

The Definition of “From the Base”

Before we dive into the numbers, it is important to define what we mean by “from the base.” In this context, we are referring to presidents who came from humble beginnings, such as a working-class or poor family, and did not have a privileged upbringing. This definition can also include presidents who had to overcome significant challenges or obstacles to achieve success. It is important to note that this definition is subjective and can vary depending on one’s perspective. However, for the purpose of this article, we will use this definition as a starting point.

The Numbers: How Many Presidents Were From the Base?

Out of the 45 presidents of the United States, only a handful can be considered “from the base.” According to a study by the University of Virginia’s Miller Center, only eight presidents can be classified as coming from humble beginnings. These include:

Andrew Jackson (1829-1837)
Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865)
Ulysses S. Grant (1869-1877)
James A. Garfield (1881)
Herbert Hoover (1929-1933)
Harry S. Truman (1945-1953)
Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969)
Bill Clinton (1993-2001)

Out of these eight presidents, only three (Jackson, Lincoln, and Truman) came from truly impoverished backgrounds. The others may have faced challenges and obstacles, but they did not come from extreme poverty.

Examples of Presidents “From the Base”

Let’s take a closer look at some of the presidents who can be considered “from the base” and their backgrounds.

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, was born into a poor family in the Carolinas. His father died before he was born, and his mother died when he was just 14 years old. He had to work as a saddle maker and a teacher to support himself. Despite his humble beginnings, Jackson went on to become a successful lawyer and military leader before becoming president in 1829.

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, was born into a poor family in Kentucky. His family moved to Indiana when he was seven years old, and he had to work on the family farm to help support them. He had very little formal education but was self-taught and became a successful lawyer before entering politics. Lincoln is often considered one of the greatest presidents in American history, and his humble beginnings are a testament to his determination and hard work.

Harry S. Truman

Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president of the United States, was born into a farming family in Missouri. He had a difficult childhood, and his family struggled financially. Truman had to work various jobs to help support his family, including as a clerk and a bank teller. Despite his challenges, he went on to become a successful businessman and eventually entered politics. Truman became president in 1945 after the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt and is known for his leadership during World War II and the beginning of the Cold War.

The Impact of Coming From the Base

Having a president who comes from humble beginnings can have a significant impact on their leadership style and policies. These presidents may have a better understanding of the struggles and challenges faced by the common people, and may be more inclined to address these issues. For example, President Lyndon B. Johnson, who grew up in poverty in Texas, was a strong advocate for civil rights and implemented policies to address poverty and inequality. President Bill Clinton, who also came from a working-class family, focused on issues such as healthcare and education during his presidency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, out of the 46 presidents of the United States, only a small number can be considered “from the base.” While this may be a disappointing number, it is important to remember that the American Dream is still alive and well. Many presidents, regardless of their background, have worked hard to achieve success and serve the American people. However, having a president who comes from humble beginnings can bring a unique perspective and understanding to the highest office in the country. As we continue to strive towards a more equal and representative government, it is important to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these presidents “from the base.”