"George Walker Bush, the 43rd U.S. president, served from 2001 to 2009. Representing the Republican Party, he also held the position of Texas' 46th governor (1995-2000). He is a member of the prominent Bush family."
July 6, 1946: Birth of George W. Bush
On July 6, 1946, George Walker Bush was born in New Haven, Connecticut, the first child of George Herbert Walker Bush and Barbara Pierce.
1953: Death of Robin Bush
In 1953, George W. Bush's younger sister, Robin, tragically passed away from leukemia at the age of three.
1964: Attends Yale University
George W. Bush began attending Yale University in 1964, where he studied history and participated in various extracurricular activities.
1967: Engagement to Cathryn Lee Wolfman
George W. Bush was engaged to Cathryn Lee Wolfman in 1967, but the engagement was later broken off.
May 1968: Commissioned into Texas Air National Guard
George W. Bush was commissioned into the Texas Air National Guard in May 1968.
1968: Graduates from Yale University
George W. Bush graduated from Yale University in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history.
1973: Enters Harvard Business School
George W. Bush entered Harvard Business School in the fall of 1973 to pursue his MBA.
November 21, 1974: Honorable Discharge from the Air Force Reserve
On November 21, 1974, George W. Bush was honorably discharged from the Air Force Reserve.
1975: Graduates from Harvard Business School
George W. Bush graduated from Harvard Business School in 1975 with an MBA degree.
1975: Graduation from Harvard Business School
George W. Bush graduated from Harvard Business School in 1975 with an MBA degree. He is the only U.S. president to have earned an MBA.
September 4, 1976: DUI Arrest
On September 4, 1976, George W. Bush was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol near his family's summer home in Kennebunkport, Maine.
1977: Marriage to Laura Welch
George W. Bush met Laura Welch at a barbecue in 1977 and they married later that year on November 5th.
1977: Establishment of Arbusto Energy
In 1977, George W. Bush founded Arbusto Energy, a small oil exploration company.
1978: Arbusto Energy Begins Operations
Arbusto Energy, George W. Bush's oil exploration company, commenced operations in 1978.
1978: Run for U.S. House of Representatives
George W. Bush ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in Texas's 19th congressional district in 1978 but lost to Kent Hance.
November 25, 1981: Birth of Twin Daughters
On November 25, 1981, Laura Bush gave birth to fraternal twin daughters, Barbara and Jenna.
1981: George H.W. Bush Becomes Vice President
George W. Bush's father, George H.W. Bush, became vice president under Ronald Reagan in 1981.
1984: Merger of Bush Exploration and Spectrum 7
In 1984, Bush Exploration, formerly Arbusto Energy, merged with the larger Spectrum 7. George W. Bush became chairman of the merged company.
1986: Decision to Quit Alcohol
George W. Bush attributes his decision to give up alcohol in 1986 to the influence of his wife, Laura.
1988: Move to Washington D.C.
George W. Bush and his family relocated to Washington, D.C. in 1988 to support his father's presidential campaign.
April 1989: Purchase of the Texas Rangers
In April 1989, George W. Bush spearheaded the purchase of a controlling interest in the Texas Rangers baseball team for $89 million. Bush himself invested $500,000 and became managing general partner.
1989: George H.W. Bush Becomes President
George H.W. Bush was elected the 41st U.S. president in 1989.
December 1991: Appointment to Father's Re-election Campaign
In December 1991, George W. Bush was chosen as one of seven advisors for his father's 1992 presidential re-election campaign.
1991: U.S. Troop Presence in Saudi Arabia
The continued presence of U.S. troops in Saudi Arabia following the 1991 Gulf War was cited as a motivating factor behind the September 11 attacks.
1993: End of George H.W. Bush's Presidency
George H.W. Bush's presidency ended in 1993 after he lost his re-election bid to Bill Clinton.
October 1994: U.S. - DPRK Agreed Framework
Following Bush publicly condemning Kim Jong-il of North Korea and identifying the state as part of an "axis of evil," both North Korea and the U.S. walked away from their commitments under the U.S. - DPRK Agreed Framework of October 1994.
1994: Texas Gubernatorial Election Campaign
George W. Bush announced his candidacy for the 1994 Texas gubernatorial election, focusing on welfare reform, tort reform, crime reduction, and education improvement.
1994: Elected Governor of Texas
George W. Bush was elected governor of Texas in 1994.
1995: Passage of Dickey-Wicker Amendment
In 1995, the Dickey-Wicker Amendment was enacted, prohibiting federal funding for research involving the creation or destruction of human embryos. This legislation shaped future policies, including President George W. Bush's stance on stem cell research.
1997: Senate Disapproval of Kyoto Protocol
In 1997, the U.S. Senate voted 95–0 on a resolution expressing its disapproval of the Kyoto Protocol. This resolution was later referenced by President George W. Bush in 2001 when he stated his opposition to the protocol shortly after taking office.
1998: Previous Stance on India's Nuclear Tests
In 1998, the U.S. under President Clinton responded to India's nuclear tests with what some have characterized as "sanctions and hectoring." This contrasted sharply with Bush's approach in 2006.
1998: Sale of Texas Rangers Shares
George W. Bush sold his shares in the Texas Rangers in 1998, earning a profit of over $14 million from his initial investment.
1998: Re-election as Texas Governor
George W. Bush was re-elected as Texas governor in 1998 with a record 68% of the vote, becoming the first in Texas history to secure two consecutive four-year terms.
1999: Renewable Energy Law in Texas
In 1999, George W. Bush, as governor of Texas, signed a law mandating electric retailers to source a portion of their energy from renewable sources.
June 10, 2000: Proclamation of Jesus Day in Texas
On June 10, 2000, Governor George W. Bush declared it "Jesus Day" in Texas, encouraging Texans to serve those in need.
July 25, 2000: Selection of Dick Cheney as Running Mate
On July 25, 2000, George W. Bush chose Dick Cheney, former White House chief of staff and Secretary of Defense, as his running mate.
2000: Beginning of Federal Spending and Revenue Trends
At the start of his presidency in 2000, George W. Bush's administration oversaw federal spending of $1.789 trillion and revenues of $2.025 trillion.
2000: Immigration Surge in Early 2000s
From 2000 to 2005, the United States experienced an unprecedented influx of nearly eight million immigrants, with a significant portion entering the country illegally. This period marked the largest five-year immigration wave in U.S. history.
2000: Time Person of the Year
In 2000, Time magazine named George W. Bush as its Person of the Year.
2000: Fiscal Year Surplus
In 2000, the U.S. saw a record budget surplus of $237 billion, marking the third consecutive year with a surplus.
2000: Poverty Rate and Median Household Income
In 2000, the poverty rate in the U.S. was 11.3 percent.
2000: 2000 Presidential Election
In the 2000 presidential election, George W. Bush won over Democratic incumbent Vice President Al Gore, although the election was highly contested and ultimately decided by the Supreme Court.
2000: Campaigning as a "Compassionate Conservative"
During the 2000 presidential campaign, George W. Bush presented himself as a "compassionate conservative," suggesting a more centrist stance than other Republicans.
2000: Decision to Seek Republican Presidential Nomination
After much speculation, George W. Bush decided to pursue the 2000 Republican presidential nomination following his re-election as Texas governor.
January 2001: Unemployment Rate at Start of Presidency
At the beginning of George W. Bush's presidency in January 2001, the unemployment rate was 4.2 percent.
February 7, 2001: Shooting incident at the White House
On February 7, 2001, Robert W. Pickett fired shots from a revolver toward the White House and was shot in the knee by a Secret Service agent before being arrested.
April 2001: Hainan Island Incident
Following the April 2001 Hainan Island incident where a U.S. surveillance aircraft collided with a Chinese jet, leading to the detention of U.S. personnel, Bush expressed support for Taiwan's defense.
May 2001: Creation of Energy Task Force
In May 2001, President George W. Bush signed an executive order to establish an interagency task force aimed at streamlining energy projects. This initiative was part of his administration's efforts to address environmental issues through executive orders.
August 9, 2001: Executive Order on Stem Cell Research
On August 9, 2001, President George W. Bush signed an executive order allowing federal funding for research on 71 existing stem cell lines, although only a fraction were viable for research. This marked a shift in federal policy on stem cell research.
September 11, 2001: September 11 Attacks
On September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks occurred in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. These attacks had a profound impact on George W. Bush's presidency and led to the start of the war on terror.
October 7, 2001: U.S. and British Forces Begin Bombing Campaign in Afghanistan
On October 7, 2001, the United States and British forces launched bombing campaigns in Afghanistan, marking the beginning of the War in Afghanistan. This military action paved the way for the arrival of Northern Alliance troops in Kabul on November 13.
December 2001: Taliban Declared Defeated in Afghanistan
In December 2001, the Pentagon announced the defeat of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, but emphasized that the war would continue to target remaining Taliban and al-Qaeda leaders.
December 2001: Bin Laden Escapes Tora Bora
Osama bin Laden evaded capture during a battle in Tora Bora, Afghanistan, in December 2001. The Bush administration later admitted that insufficient U.S. ground troops contributed to his escape.
2001: Tax Cut Proposal and Economic Warnings
In 2001, the Bush administration projected a $5.6 trillion surplus over the next decade and proposed a $1.35 trillion tax cut program. Despite warnings of a potential recession from Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, Bush advocated for the tax cuts to stimulate the economy, arguing that the surplus belonged to the people.
2001: Bush Opposes Kyoto Protocol
In 2001, upon taking office, President George W. Bush expressed his opposition to the Kyoto Protocol, citing that it exempted a large portion of the world's population and would result in substantial costs for the United States. This decision aligned with a previous unanimous Senate resolution from 1997, which disapproved of the protocol.
2001: Start of Bush Presidency
George W. Bush began his presidency in 2001 with the Dow Jones Industrial Average at 10,587 points.
2001: Start of Condoleezza Rice's Tenure as National Security Advisor
Condoleezza Rice began her tenure as George W. Bush's national security advisor in 2001.
January 29, 2002: Bush Identifies "Axis of Evil"
In his State of the Union Address on January 29, 2002, President Bush labeled North Korea, Iran, and Ba'athist Iraq as an "axis of evil," asserting they posed a growing threat to world peace and were actively arming themselves.
November 2002: UN Weapons Inspectors in Iraq
In November 2002, under the leadership of Hans Blix and Mohamed ElBaradei, UN weapons inspectors commenced their work in Iraq. However, despite their request for more time to complete their investigations, they were advised by the U.S. to leave the country just four days before the American invasion.
2002: CIA Reports on Saddam Hussein's Weapons Programs
Throughout the latter half of 2002, CIA reports emerged containing allegations about Saddam Hussein's regime in Iraq. These reports suggested Hussein's intentions to revive nuclear weapons programs, a failure to properly account for existing biological and chemical weapons, and the possession of Iraqi missiles with ranges exceeding UN sanctions.
2002: Authorization of Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
Between 2002 and 2003, the Bush administration authorized the CIA to utilize "enhanced interrogation techniques," which included waterboarding. This decision was based on legal opinions suggesting that these methods did not constitute torture under the Geneva Conventions when applied to terror suspects.
2002: No Child Left Behind Act
President Bush signed the No Child Left Behind Act into law in early 2002. This bipartisan initiative aimed to improve education by addressing the performance gap between economically disadvantaged students and their peers. The act focused on standardized testing, provided options for parents with children in underperforming schools, and increased funding for low-income schools.
2002: Proposal of Clear Skies Act
In 2002, President George W. Bush proposed the Clear Skies Act of 2003, intending to amend the Clean Air Act to reduce air pollution through emissions trading programs. Critics argued that the initiative could weaken existing air quality standards. The proposal was introduced to Congress but did not advance past committee review.
2002: Withdrawal from ABM Treaty
In 2002, President Bush withdrew the United States from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty (ABM) with Russia, marking the first time since World War II that the U.S. had withdrawn from a major international arms treaty. Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized the move.
January 2003: President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)
In January 2003 during the State of the Union address, President Bush outlined a five-year strategy for global emergency AIDS relief called the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
June 2003: Rise in Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in the U.S. increased to 6.3 percent by June 2003, up from 4.2 percent at the start of Bush's term.
2003: Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit
President Bush signed the Medicare Act of 2003, introducing significant changes to Medicare, including a new prescription drug benefit for beneficiaries. This provision aimed to provide financial assistance for prescription drug costs and utilized private insurance for benefit delivery. The program, estimated to cost $400 billion over a decade, was supported by the AARP and was promoted as a way to provide seniors with more healthcare choices and control.
2003: Introduction of Clear Skies Act
The Clear Skies Act of 2003, proposed by President George W. Bush, aimed to amend the Clean Air Act by implementing emissions trading programs. The legislation faced criticism for potentially allowing higher pollution levels than existing laws. Despite being introduced in Congress, the act failed to progress beyond committee discussions in 2003.
2003: Push for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Regulation
The Bush administration pushed for stronger regulations on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in 2003. While the regulations passed in the House, they were unsuccessful in the Senate, facing opposition from some Republicans and members of the Bush administration who were concerned about replicating risky practices.
2003: Bush Urges UN to Enforce Iraqi Disarmament and Diplomatic Crisis Ensues
In late 2002 and early 2003, President Bush pressed the United Nations to enforce mandates requiring Iraq's disarmament, which ignited a significant diplomatic crisis. The Bush administration's assertion that the Iraq War was part of the broader War on Terror faced considerable scrutiny and debate among political analysts.
2003: Economic Improvement and Further Tax Cuts
By 2003, the U.S. economy showed signs of improvement, although job growth remained stagnant. Another round of tax cuts was passed in the same year.
2003: Syria Accountability Act
In 2003, President Bush signed the Syria Accountability Act which expanded sanctions on Syria.
2003: Invasion of Iraq
In 2003, George W. Bush ordered the invasion of Iraq, citing the belief that Saddam Hussein's regime possessed weapons of mass destruction and had ties with al-Qaeda.
2003: Military Intervention in Haiti and Liberia
From 2003 to 2004, President Bush authorized military interventions in both Haiti and Liberia to protect U.S. interests.
2003: CIA's Use of Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
From 2002 to 2003, the CIA employed enhanced interrogation techniques on suspected terrorists. This practice sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing that these methods amounted to torture and yielded unreliable information.
2003: Taliban Regroups
By early 2003, despite initial setbacks, the Taliban began regrouping in Afghanistan, gathering resources and new recruits.
2003: U.S. Troop Withdrawal from Saudi Arabia
In 2003, the United States withdrew a significant portion of its troops from Saudi Arabia.
May 2004: Gallup poll shows high Republican approval for Bush
In May 2004, Gallup reported that 89 percent of the Republican electorate approved of President Bush.
2004: Nomination of Porter Goss as CIA Director
Following George Tenet's resignation, George W. Bush nominated Porter Goss as CIA director in 2004. Goss was tasked with removing officials deemed disloyal to the administration.
2004: Re-election as President
George W. Bush was re-elected president in 2004, defeating Democratic opponent John Kerry.
2004: Bush issues executive orders related to Lebanon
In 2004, President Bush signed executive orders that would later be used to freeze the assets of individuals accused of undermining the political process in Lebanon.
2004: Peak in Poverty Rate
The poverty rate in the United States peaked at 12.7 percent in 2004.
2004: Growing Insurgency in Iraq
Throughout 2004, the U.S. and allied forces in Iraq faced a growing insurgency, challenging the initial perception of victory. This period marked a turning point towards prolonged instability and conflict in the country.
2004: 2004 Re-election Campaign and Platform
During his 2004 re-election campaign, George W. Bush faced no primary challenge and focused on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the USA PATRIOT Act, social security reform, and opposition to mandatory carbon emissions controls.
2004: 2004 Presidential Election
An unofficial survey in 2004 indicated strong support for President Bush among military personnel, with 73% favoring him over John Kerry. This support was attributed to their belief in Bush's ability to successfully conclude the Iraq War.
2004: Military Intervention in Haiti and Liberia
From 2003 to 2004, President Bush authorized military interventions in both Haiti and Liberia to protect U.S. interests.
January 2005: First Iraqi Parliamentary Election
In January 2005, Iraq held its first parliamentary election recognized as free and fair by the West in 50 years. This election led to the formation of a new Iraqi government, marking a step towards democratic transition.
May 10, 2005: Hand grenade attack in Freedom Square
On May 10, 2005, while President Bush was giving a speech in Freedom Square, Vladimir Arutyunian threw a live hand grenade toward the podium, which landed in the crowd but did not detonate.
June 2005: Release of Military Records
In June 2005, the Department of Defense released all the records of George W. Bush's Texas Air National Guard service.
June 2005: Bush expands economic sanctions on Syria
In June 2005, the Treasury Department froze the American bank accounts of three Syrian institutions suspected of aiding in the spread of weapons of mass destruction and supporting terrorism.
July 2005: Arrest of Vladimir Arutyunian
After escaping the scene, Vladimir Arutyunian was arrested in July 2005 during which he killed an Interior Ministry agent.
July 19, 2005: Nomination of John Roberts
On July 19, 2005, President Bush nominated federal appellate judge John Roberts to replace Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor following her retirement on July 1.
September 29, 2005: Confirmation of John Roberts as Chief Justice
On September 29, 2005, John Roberts was confirmed by the Senate to be the next Chief Justice of the United States after Bush's previous nomination for him to replace O'Connor was withdrawn.
October 3, 2005: Nomination of Harriet Miers
On October 3, 2005, President Bush nominated White House Counsel Harriet Miers to succeed O'Connor.
October 2005: Iraqi Constitutional Referendum
In October 2005, a referendum was held in Iraq to approve a new constitution. The constitution, supported by most Shiites and many Kurds, aimed to establish a framework for a democratic Iraq.
November 1, 2005: National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza Launched
On November 1, 2005, the Bush administration introduced a National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza, demonstrating a proactive approach to potential health crises.
December 2005: Bush's Approval Rating at 47 Percent
In December 2005, George W. Bush's approval rating reached 47 percent.
2005: Operation Red Wings Failure
The failure of Operation Red Wings in 2005 illustrated the resurgence of the Taliban in Afghanistan and the growing challenges faced by allied forces.
2005: Social Security Reform Proposal
In 2005, facing projected Social Security deficits, Bush made reforming the program a central part of his domestic agenda. His proposal, which included partial privatization, personal accounts, and options to invest Social Security taxes, faced strong opposition from Democrats.
2005: Impact of Hurricane Katrina
Hurricane Katrina, occurring in 2005 during President George W. Bush's second term, was one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history. The hurricane severely impacted the Gulf Coast, notably New Orleans, and influenced the political climate and legislative priorities during that year.
2005: Condoleezza Rice Becomes Secretary of State
In 2005, Condoleezza Rice transitioned from national security advisor to secretary of state under George W. Bush.
2005: Campaign for Social Security Reform
In 2005, George W. Bush embarked on a 60-day national tour to promote his initiative called 'Conversations on Social Security.' Despite his efforts to gain public support, the proposal's popularity declined. Political challenges, including the response to Hurricane Katrina, further diminished the legislative prospects of Social Security reform in 2005.
2005: Bush's Call for Immigration Reform
In 2005, President George W. Bush urged Congress to address the status of over twelve million undocumented immigrants by creating a temporary guest-worker program. He also advocated for increased funding to bolster border security, reflecting his administration's focus on comprehensive immigration reform.
January 2006: Conviction of Vladimir Arutyunian
In January 2006, Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted for the hand grenade attack and given a life sentence.
January 31, 2006: Confirmation of Samuel Alito
On January 31, 2006, federal appellate judge Samuel Alito was confirmed by the Senate to replace O'Connor after Bush's previous nomination of Harriet Miers was withdrawn.
March 2006: Debate Over Raising the Debt Ceiling
In March 2006, a debate took place regarding the raising of the debt ceiling. Then-Senator Barack Obama opposed the increase, attributing it to a "leadership failure."
March 2006: Bush's Visit to India
In March 2006, President Bush visited India, focusing on nuclear energy, counter-terrorism cooperation, and discussions that would lead to the India-United States Civil Nuclear Agreement.
May 2006: Pandemic Influenza Implementation Plan Published
Following the launch of the National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza, the Homeland Security Council released a detailed implementation plan in May 2006, outlining steps to address a potential influenza pandemic.
July 19, 2006: Bush's Veto on Stem Cell Research Bill
On July 19, 2006, President George W. Bush used his veto power for the first time to reject the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. This bill sought to allow federal funding for embryonic stem cell research by overturning the Dickey-Wicker Amendment.
August 2006: NSA Surveillance Program Ruled Unconstitutional
In August 2006, a U.S. district court judge ruled that the NSA's electronic surveillance program, implemented after the September 11 attacks, was unconstitutional.
October 9, 2006: North Korea's nuclear detonation
On October 9, 2006, North Korea detonated a nuclear device, further complicating President Bush's foreign policy which was focused on preventing the use of nuclear weapons.
October 17, 2006: Military Commissions Act Signed into Law
On October 17, 2006, President Bush signed the Military Commissions Act of 2006 into law. This act allowed the U.S. government to prosecute unlawful enemy combatants through military commissions instead of standard trials.
2006: Taliban Insurgency Intensifies
The Taliban insurgency gained momentum in 2006, proving to be larger, more aggressive, and better organized than anticipated. Large-scale offensives, such as Operation Mountain Thrust, yielded limited results.
2006: Release of the Iraq Study Group Report
In 2006, the bipartisan Iraq Study Group, led by James Baker, released a report concluding that the situation in Iraq was "grave and deteriorating." The report highlighted the challenges and failures of the U.S. strategy in Iraq.
2006: Creation of Northwestern Hawaiian Islands National Monument
In 2006, President George W. Bush designated the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands as a national monument, creating the largest marine reserve at the time, known as the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. The area spans 84 million acres and is home to thousands of unique species. This move was praised by conservationists for its environmental foresight.
2006: Bush Advocates for Temporary Guest-Worker Program
In 2006, President George W. Bush called on Congress to implement a temporary guest-worker program for undocumented immigrants and to enhance border security measures. He emphasized the importance of legalizing immigrant workers to protect their rights and meet labor demands.
2006: Launch of Advanced Energy Initiative
During his 2006 State of the Union Address, President George W. Bush stated that 'America is addicted to oil' and introduced the Advanced Energy Initiative to enhance research and development in energy technologies.
2006: Iraq War Fuels Jihadist Cause
By 2006, a National Intelligence Estimate concluded that the ongoing war in Iraq had become a significant rallying point for jihadists, fueling their cause and attracting more recruits.
2006: Democratic Party Regains Control of Congress
Amid mounting criticism of his policies, including the handling of the Iraq War and Hurricane Katrina, President Bush's approval ratings plummeted in 2006. This contributed to the Democratic Party regaining control of Congress in the midterm elections.
2006: Democrats Regain Control of Congress
Amid growing unpopularity for George W. Bush and his handling of Hurricane Katrina and the Iraq War, the Democrats regained control of Congress in the 2006 midterm elections.
2006: Global Opinion of Bush Remains Unfavorable
A 2006 survey revealed that in 18 out of 21 countries surveyed, respondents held an unfavorable view of President Bush, largely attributing a negative impact on world security to his administration.
2006: NIH Funding Cut
In 2006, funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) was reduced for the first time in 36 years. This cut was attributed to increasing inflation.
January 10, 2007: Announcement of the Iraq War Troop Surge
On January 10, 2007, President Bush announced a surge of 21,500 additional troops for Iraq. The surge aimed to quell the increasing violence and stabilize the country.
January 2007: Surge of Troops in Iraq
In January 2007, George W. Bush launched a surge of troops in Iraq, aiming to quell the ongoing insurgency.
January 17, 2007: Discontinuation of the President's Surveillance Program
On January 17, 2007, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales announced that the President would not reauthorize the President's Surveillance Program. Instead, it would be subjected to judicial oversight.
March 2007: Bush Sends Additional Troops to Afghanistan
In March 2007, in response to the escalating Taliban insurgency, President Bush ordered the deployment of an additional 3,500 troops to Afghanistan.
March 2007: Bush Deemed Most Disliked World Leader in Arab Nations
A March 2007 survey conducted in six Arab nations by Zogby International and the University of Maryland found President Bush to be the most disliked world leader, reflecting strained relations with the Arab world.
May 1, 2007: Bush Vetoes Iraq Withdrawal Bill
On May 1, 2007, President Bush issued his second veto, rejecting a bill that would have set a deadline for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. Bush argued that a continued U.S. presence was crucial for stability.
May 7, 2007: North Korea agrees to shut down nuclear reactors
On May 7, 2007, as a result of three-way talks with the United States and China, North Korea agreed to shut down its nuclear reactors if the release of their frozen funds in a foreign bank account was secured.
June 2007: Support for Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act
In June 2007, President George W. Bush strongly supported the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, which aimed to provide legal status to millions of undocumented immigrants while enhancing border security. The proposal faced significant opposition and ultimately did not pass.
June 2007: Bush Receives Warm Welcome in Albania
During a June 2007 visit to Albania, a Muslim-majority nation supportive of U.S. foreign policy, President Bush received a warm welcome, including a street named after him and a statue erected in his honor.
June 2007: Street in Tirana Renamed After Bush
In a symbolic gesture, a street in Tirana, Albania, previously known as Rruga Punëtorët e Rilindjes, located near the Albanian Parliament, was renamed in honor of George W. Bush shortly before his historic visit to the country in June 2007. This marked the first time an American president had visited Albania.
June 28, 2007: Defeat of Comprehensive Immigration Reform
On June 28, 2007, the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act was defeated in the Senate due to a failed cloture vote, highlighting the divide within the Republican Party over its provisions for legalization. President George W. Bush expressed disappointment over the bill's defeat, which had been a key domestic priority for his administration.
July 6, 2007: NSA Surveillance Program Ruling Vacated
On July 6, 2007, a ruling by a U.S. district court judge that declared the NSA's electronic surveillance program unconstitutional was vacated by the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
July 2007: Decline in Unemployment Rate
By July 2007, the unemployment rate in the United States had fallen to 4.5 percent.
September 2, 2007: North Korea agrees to dismantle nuclear programs
On September 2, 2007, North Korea agreed to disclose and dismantle all of its nuclear programs by the end of 2007.
October 2007: Dow Jones Industrial Average Peak
The Dow Jones Industrial Average reached its highest point during Bush's presidency in October 2007, surpassing 14,000 points.
November 2007: Bush imposes sanctions on Lebanese and Syrian individuals
In November 2007, the Treasury Department froze the assets of two Lebanese and two Syrians, accusing them of activities to "undermine the legitimate political process in Lebanon".
December 2007: Start of the Great Recession
The United States entered its most prolonged economic downturn since World War II in December 2007, triggered by a confluence of factors including a housing market correction, a subprime mortgage crisis, and escalating oil prices.
2007: Bush's Approval Rating Remains Low
Throughout 2007, President Bush's approval rating remained low, hovering in the mid-thirties. This continued a trend of declining popularity and criticism of his presidency.
2007: Start of the Great Recession
The U.S. entered the Great Recession in December 2007, during the final year of George W. Bush's presidency.
2007: State of the Union Address on Energy
In his 2007 State of the Union Address, President George W. Bush reiterated his commitment to reducing reliance on foreign oil. He emphasized the need to decrease fossil fuel consumption and increase alternative fuel production to ensure energy security.
2007: Opposition to SCHIP Expansion
In 2007, President Bush vetoed a bill that would have expanded the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Bush argued that the expansion, which would have been funded by an increased cigarette tax, was a step towards socialized healthcare and could benefit families who did not require assistance.
2007: Deterioration of the Situation in Iraq
By 2007, the situation in Iraq had significantly deteriorated, with many observers describing it as a full-scale civil war. This led to increased criticism of Bush's policies and demands for troop withdrawal.
2007: Start of the Longest Post-WWII Recession
The United States entered its longest post-World War II recession in 2007, during George W. Bush's presidency.
February 2008: Record Job Losses
The U.S. experienced a five-year high in job losses in February 2008, with 63,000 jobs lost.
March 8, 2008: Bush Vetoes Bill Expanding Oversight on Interrogation Techniques
On March 8, 2008, President Bush vetoed H.R. 2082, a bill aiming to increase congressional oversight of intelligence agencies and prohibit waterboarding and other interrogation techniques not sanctioned by the U.S. Army Field Manual.
March 10, 2008: Congress Files Lawsuit
On March 10, 2008, amidst investigations into potential political motivations behind U.S. Attorney appointments, Congress filed a federal lawsuit to enforce subpoenas they had issued.
March 2008: Bush Praises Iraqi Government's Launch of the Battle of Basra
In March 2008, President Bush commended the Iraqi government for launching the Battle of Basra against the Mahdi Army. He considered it a significant step towards a free Iraq.
April 2008: Bush's Disapproval Ratings Reach Record High
In April 2008, President Bush's disapproval ratings reached an unprecedented high in the 70-year history of the Gallup poll, with 69% disapproving of his job performance. This marked a low point in public perception of his presidency.
May 21, 2008: Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act
On May 21, 2008, President Bush signed the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, a law that had been debated for 13 years. The act aims to prevent discrimination based on genetic information in both health insurance and employment.
June 9, 2008: Impeachment Articles Introduced Against Bush
On June 9, 2008, Representative Dennis Kucinich introduced 35 articles of impeachment against President Bush in the House of Representatives, citing controversies like the NSA warrantless surveillance program and the justification for the Iraq War.
June 2008: Bush Lifts Offshore Drilling Ban
In June 2008, amidst rising gasoline prices, President George W. Bush lifted the executive ban on offshore drilling, emphasizing the need for increased domestic oil production. However, this action was largely symbolic due to an existing federal law prohibiting such drilling. Bush highlighted the importance of reducing oil demand by promoting alternative energy technologies.
July 2008: Decrease in U.S. Troop Deaths in Iraq
By July 2008, U.S. troop deaths in Iraq had decreased to their lowest point since the beginning of the war. This relative stability allowed for the withdrawal of additional American forces.
July 31, 2008: Court Ruling on Subpoenas
On July 31, 2008, a United States district court judge ruled that top advisers to President Bush were not immune from Congressional subpoenas related to the investigation into U.S. Attorney firings.
September 2008: Financial Crisis Escalates
The financial crisis of 2008 intensified in September with the government taking control of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This was followed by the collapse of Lehman Brothers and an $85 billion federal bailout of American International Group (AIG).
October 2008: National Debt Reaches $11.3 Trillion
By October 2008, the national debt had more than doubled since 2000, reaching $11.3 trillion. This increase was primarily attributed to the "Bush tax cuts" and heightened national security spending.
December 14, 2008: Shoe-throwing incident in Baghdad
On December 14, 2008, Iraqi journalist Muntadhar al-Zaidi threw both of his shoes at President Bush during a press conference in Baghdad. Bush was not injured.
December 2008: Shoe-Throwing Incident During Bush's Visit to Iraq
During his final visit to Iraq in December 2008, President Bush was involved in an incident where an Iraqi journalist, Muntadhar al-Zaidi, threw his shoes at him during a press conference. Al-Zaidi's action was a protest against the Iraq War.
2008: Commitment to Clean Energy Fund
In his 2008 State of the Union Address, President George W. Bush pledged $2 billion over three years to an international fund supporting clean energy technologies. He aimed to promote cleaner technologies in developing nations and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to international cooperation to tackle greenhouse gas emissions.
2008: Bush Supports Ukraine and Georgia's NATO Membership, Condemns Russia's Actions in Georgia
In early 2008, President Bush voiced his strong support for Ukraine and Georgia joining NATO, despite opposition from Russia. Later that year, during the Russo-Georgian diplomatic crisis, he condemned Russia's recognition of South Ossetia's separatist government and their subsequent military invasion of Georgia.
2008: End of Federal Spending and Revenue Trends
By the end of George W. Bush's presidency in 2008, federal spending had risen to $2.983 trillion and revenues to $2.524 trillion.
2008: Bush's Approval Rating Hits 19%
By the start of 2008, President Bush's approval rating had fallen to a low of 19%, a significant decline driven by waning support even among Republicans.
2008: End of Presidency and Financial Crisis
George W. Bush's presidency concluded in 2008, a year marked by the ongoing financial crisis. His approval ratings were among the lowest of any president at the end of their term.
2008: Bush's Handling of 2008 Financial Crisis Scrutinized
George W. Bush's response to the 2008 financial crisis has been a subject of scrutiny and debate, with critics questioning the effectiveness of his administration's actions in mitigating the crisis's impact.
2008: End of Bush Presidency
When Bush's presidency concluded in 2008, the Dow Jones Industrial Average had fallen to 7,949 points, one of the lowest levels during his time in office.
2008: Bush's Approval Rating Remains Low Before 2008 Election
Leading up to the 2008 election, President Bush's approval ratings remained at record lows, ranging from 19% to 20%, while his disapproval ratings reached up to 75%.
January 2009: Bush's Favorability at 40 Percent
Gallup's public opinion surveys in January 2009 revealed that George W. Bush's favorability rating stood at 40 percent following the end of his presidency.
March 2009: Bush's Favorability Dips to 35 Percent
By March 2009, George W. Bush's favorability rating had slightly declined to 35 percent, according to Gallup's public opinion polls.
March 2009: Bush Makes First Post-Presidency Speech
In March 2009, President Bush made his first public speech since leaving office, delivering it in Calgary, Alberta. This marked the beginning of his post-presidency activities.
April 2009: ACLU Wins Release of Secret Memos on Interrogation Tactics
In April 2009, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) successfully sued for the release of classified memos that authorized the Bush administration's interrogation methods. These memos detailed specific tactics, including waterboarding, which was described as torture.
May 2009: North Korea restarts nuclear program
By May 2009, North Korea restarted its nuclear program and threatened to attack South Korea.
September 15, 2009: Release of Muntadhar al-Zaidi
On September 15, 2009, Muntadhar al-Zaidi was released early for good behavior after receiving a reduced prison sentence for throwing his shoes at President Bush.
November 5, 2009: Bush Visits Fort Hood Shooting Victims
Following the tragic shooting at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009, President Bush and Laura Bush visited the survivors and families of the victims, offering support and condolences in a private setting.
2009: End of Condoleezza Rice's Time as Secretary of State
Condoleezza Rice's term as secretary of state under George W. Bush concluded in 2009.
2009: Initial C-SPAN Survey Ranks Bush 36th
In 2009, C-SPAN's inaugural survey of historians positioned George W. Bush as the 36th-best president.
2009: Bush's Final Approval Rating
By January 2009, at the end of his presidency, Bush's approval rating stood at 34% according to Gallup and 22% according to a CBS News/New York Times poll, placing him among the lowest-rated presidents in history.
January 2010: Bush and Clinton Establish Haiti Fund
In January 2010, in response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti, George W. Bush collaborated with former President Bill Clinton to establish the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund. This initiative aimed to raise funds and provide support for relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of the disaster.
June 22, 2010: Bush criticizes North Korea's leadership
On June 22, 2010, President Bush stated that while South Korea prospers, North Korea suffers from dire poverty, mass starvation, and brutal suppression as a result of communism and its leader who wasted resources on nuclear weapons and personal luxuries.
July 2010: Bush's Favorability Rises to 45 Percent
Gallup's public opinion surveys in July 2010 showed a modest increase in George W. Bush's favorability rating, reaching 45 percent after a period of relative absence from the public eye.
September 19, 2010: Bush's Offer to Accept Palestinian Refugees
On September 19, 2010, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert revealed that President George W. Bush had offered to accept 100,000 Palestinian refugees as American citizens if a permanent settlement between Israel and the Palestinian Authority was reached. This proposal was part of the broader peace negotiations.
November 9, 2010: Bush Releases Memoir "Decision Points"
On November 9, 2010, President Bush released his memoir, "Decision Points", reflecting on his presidency and key decisions. In the book, he cites keeping the country safe as his biggest accomplishment and the failure to pass Social Security reform as his greatest regret.
2010: Siena Research Institute Survey Ranks Bush 39th
A 2010 survey by the Siena Research Institute, polling historians, political scientists, and presidential scholars, positioned George W. Bush as the 39th out of 43 presidents.
2010: Bush Attends 2010 World Series Game
Continuing his engagement in public events, President Bush, along with his father, participated in Game 4 of the 2010 World Series, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.
2010: Tony Blair defends Bush's intelligence
In 2010, Tony Blair wrote that the caricature of President Bush as unintelligent is "ludicrous" and that Bush is actually "very smart."
May 2, 2011: Bush Informed of Bin Laden's Death
On May 2, 2011, President Barack Obama contacted George W. Bush, who was dining with his wife, to inform him about the successful mission to eliminate Osama bin Laden.
May 2011: Bin Laden Killed
In May 2011, two years after Bush left office, Osama bin Laden was located and killed by U.S. forces during an operation authorized by President Barack Obama.
2011: Disagreement with Obama's Iraq Withdrawal
In 2011, George W. Bush vocally disagreed with President Obama's withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq, characterizing it as a "strategic blunder".
February 2012: Gallup Reports Low Bush Ratings Improving
In February 2012, Gallup released a report indicating that while George W. Bush still ranked among the lowest-rated presidents by the American public, perceptions of his presidency had become slightly more favorable in the years following his departure from office.
2012: Bush Awarded Estonian Order of the Cross
In recognition of his contributions to the expansion of NATO, George W. Bush was honored with the Order of the Cross of Terra Mariana by Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves in 2012.
April 2013: Bush and Obama's Approval Ratings Converge
A joint poll conducted by The Washington Post and ABC in April 2013 indicated that George W. Bush's approval rating had risen to 47 percent, matching President Barack Obama's approval rating at the time. Notably, Bush's approval had increased among specific demographics, including seniors, non-college whites, and moderate and conservative Democrats.
June 2013: Bush's Ratings Turn Positive
For the first time since leaving office, George W. Bush's favorability ratings surpassed his unfavorable ratings in June 2013, with 49 percent viewing him favorably compared to 46 percent unfavorably, according to Gallup.
June 2013: Public Revelation of the PRISM Surveillance Program
In June 2013, reports by The Washington Post and The Guardian unveiled the existence of PRISM, a surveillance program launched by the NSA as a replacement for the earlier President's Surveillance Program.
August 6, 2013: Bush Undergoes Successful Heart Surgery
On August 6, 2013, President Bush underwent a successful procedure to address a coronary artery blockage. The blockage was detected during a routine medical examination.
2013: PEPFAR's impact
By 2013, the U.S. government had spent some $44 billion on PEPFAR which saved an estimated five million lives.
2013: Bush Reflects on Historical Judgment
In 2013, George W. Bush commented on the evolving nature of historical perspectives, acknowledging that future historians would ultimately assess his decisions. He expressed his comfort with this process, emphasizing that he stood by his actions.
2014: Advocacy for Education, Health, and HIV/AIDS Treatment in Africa
During the 2014 United States–Africa Leaders Summit, George W. Bush, alongside Michelle Obama, the State Department, and the George W. Bush Institute, hosted a forum on education and health, urging African leaders to avoid discriminatory laws hindering HIV/AIDS treatment.
June 12, 2015: Interview on ISIS and Iran
In an interview published on June 12, 2015, by Israel Hayom magazine, George W. Bush stated his belief that "boots on the ground" were necessary to defeat ISIS, drawing a parallel to his decision to increase troop presence in Iraq during his presidency to combat Al Qaeda.
2015: Bush's Favorability at 52 Percent
A CNN poll in 2015 showed that George W. Bush had a favorability rating of 52 percent.
2016: Non-Endorsement of Donald Trump and Concerns about the Republican Party
During the 2016 Republican presidential primaries, George W. Bush campaigned for his brother Jeb Bush but ultimately declined to endorse Donald Trump, expressing private concerns about the direction of the Republican Party.
2016: Bush Responds to Dallas Police Shootings
Following the tragic shooting of Dallas police officers in 2016, President Bush expressed his condolences and condemned the act, highlighting the gravity of violence against those who protect communities.
2016: Attendance at Trump's Inauguration
George W. Bush and Laura Bush attended Donald Trump's inauguration in 2016, with images of Bush struggling with a rain poncho becoming an internet meme.
February 2017: Release of "Portraits of Courage"
In February 2017, George W. Bush released his book "Portraits of Courage," a collection of his own paintings of veterans.
February 2017: Bush Releases Book of Veteran Portraits
In February 2017, George W. Bush released his book "Portraits of Courage," a collection of his paintings featuring veterans. The proceeds from the book were donated to the George W. Bush Presidential Center.
September 7, 2017: Bush Joins Former Presidents in Hurricane Relief Efforts
On September 7, 2017, George W. Bush united with fellow former presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama to support the One America Appeal. This initiative focused on assisting the victims of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma in the Gulf Coast and Texas communities.
2017: Bush's Image Improves, Particularly Among Democrats
Public perception of George W. Bush saw a noticeable upswing in 2017. A YouGov survey revealed a significant increase in his favorability among Democrats, reaching 51 percent.
September 1, 2018: Attendance at John McCain's Funeral
George W. Bush and Laura Bush attended the funeral of Senator John McCain at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. on September 1, 2018, where Bush delivered a speech.
September 2018: Bush and Michelle Obama's Friendship at McCain Funeral
George W. Bush and Michelle Obama's friendly rapport was observed during Senator John McCain's funeral in September 2018, where Bush was seen passing mints to Obama.
December 2018: Bush and Michelle Obama's Continued Camaraderie
The friendly dynamic between George W. Bush and Michelle Obama continued to be evident in December 2018, as they were seen together once again during the funeral of George H.W. Bush, where Bush offered mints to Obama.
2018: CNN Poll Shows Increased Favorability for Bush
A 2018 CNN poll indicated that George W. Bush's favorability had climbed to 61 percent, reflecting a nine-point increase from 2015. This surge in positive sentiment has been attributed, in part, to Democrats viewing him more favorably in the context of Donald Trump's presidency.
May 2019: Bush Honors Former South Korean President
In a gesture of respect and remembrance, George W. Bush created a portrait of former South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun in May 2019, marking the tenth anniversary of Roh's passing. The portrait was presented to Roh's family.
May 2019: Visit to South Korea to Honor Roh Moo-hyun
On the tenth anniversary of former South Korean president Roh Moo-hyun's death in May 2019, George W. Bush visited South Korea to pay his respects and deliver a short eulogy.
June 1, 2020: Statement on George Floyd's Murder and Racial Injustice
On June 1, 2020, George W. Bush released a statement expressing anguish over George Floyd's murder and the systemic racial injustices it highlighted, calling for America to address its "tragic failures."
2020: Fundraisers for Republican Senators and Non-Attendance at RNC
During the 2020 election cycle, George W. Bush held virtual fundraisers for struggling Republican senators but did not attend the Republican National Convention where President Trump was renominated.
January 6, 2021: Condemnation of the Capitol Attack
Following the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, George W. Bush joined former presidents Obama, Clinton, and Carter in denouncing the violence, characterizing it as an attack on democracy.
April 2021: Disclosure of 2020 Election Vote
In April 2021, George W. Bush revealed to People magazine that he had written in Condoleezza Rice for president in the 2020 election, rather than voting for Donald Trump or Joe Biden.
July 14, 2021: Bush Reaffirms Opposition to Afghanistan Withdrawal
On July 14, 2021, during an interview with Deutsche Welle, George W. Bush reiterated his stance against President Biden's withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, labeling the decision a "mistake." He expressed concerns that the withdrawal would create a power vacuum, potentially jeopardizing the well-being of Afghan women.
September 11, 2021: Bush Speaks at Flight 93 National Memorial
On September 11, 2021, at the Flight 93 National Memorial, George W. Bush delivered a speech commemorating the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. He commended the heroism of the passengers and crew on Flight 93 and emphasized the enduring spirit of America.
2021: C-SPAN Survey Ranks Bush 29th
C-SPAN's 2021 survey of historians showed an improvement in George W. Bush's ranking, placing him as the 29th-best president, compared to his initial ranking of 36th in 2009.
2023: PEPFAR's continued success
By 2023, PEPFAR was estimated to have saved over 25 million lives, alleviating the severity of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
2023: Bush Throws First Pitch at 2023 World Series
President Bush remained active in public appearances, as evidenced by his participation in the 2023 World Series where he threw the first pitch in Game 1.
July 13, 2024: Bush Condemns Assassination Attempt on Trump
On July 13, 2024, George W. Bush publicly condemned the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, characterizing it as "cowardly" and commending the Secret Service for their swift response.