Lasting Legacy of Barack Obama: A Look at the Influence on History

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Barack Obama across different fields.

Barack Obama, the 44th U.S. President (2009-2017), was the first African American to hold the office. A Democrat, he previously served as a U.S. Senator for Illinois (2005-2008) and an Illinois State Senator (1997-2004). His presidency was marked by significant policy changes and challenges both domestically and internationally.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1965: Passage of Medicare and Medicaid

In 1965, Medicare and Medicaid were passed. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is considered the most significant regulatory overhaul and expansion of coverage since the passage of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965.

2015: Obama ranked the 18th-greatest American president

In 2015, from the same survey from the Brookings Institution, Obama gained 10 spots and ranked the 18th-greatest American president.

2016: Obama's reflection on Libya Intervention

In 2016 Obama said "Our coalition could have and should have done more to fill a vacuum left behind" and that it was "a mess". He has stated that the lack of preparation surrounding the days following the government's overthrow was the "worst mistake" of his presidency.

January 2017: Obama left office with a 60 percent approval rating

In January 2017, Barack Obama left office with a 60 percent approval rating.

2017: Obama's final approval rating

In polling conducted January 16–19, 2017, Obama's final approval rating was 59 percent, which placed him on par with George H. W. Bush and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

2018: Obama received a 63 percent approval rating

In Gallup's 2018 job approval poll for the past 10 U.S. presidents, Barack Obama received a 63 percent approval rating.

2018: Obama's retrospective approval polls garner a 63 percent approval rating

In Gallup's retrospective approval polls of former presidents, Obama garnered a 63 percent approval rating in 2018.

2021: Presidential Library Construction Begins

In 2021, construction began on Barack Obama's presidential library in the South Side of Chicago.

2023: Obama's retrospective approval polls garner a 63 percent approval rating again

In Gallup's retrospective approval polls of former presidents, Obama garnered a 63 percent approval rating again in 2023, ranking him the fourth most popular president since World War II.