The 43rd President of the United States, served from 2001 to 2009. His presidency is a significant topic in Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) curricula. Students study his domestic and foreign policies, including the response to the September 11th terrorist attacks, the initiation of the “War on Terror,” and related military interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Consideration of his administration necessitates understanding the No Child Left Behind Act, a major education reform initiative, and the response to Hurricane Katrina. Students may be required to analyze the economic policies enacted during his time in office, including tax cuts and deregulation.
Understanding this period is crucial for students preparing for the APUSH exam because it represents a turning point in American foreign policy and domestic priorities. Analysis of his actions allows students to demonstrate critical thinking skills by evaluating the impact of presidential decisions on both national and international affairs. Comprehending the context surrounding his presidency, including the political climate and societal concerns, demonstrates a mastery of historical causation and its complex relationship to events and policy making.