Harry S. Truman (1884-1972) was the 33rd president of the United States, unexpectedly assuming office in 1945 and leading the nation through the final months of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War. He made the decision to use atomic bombs against Japan, the creation of the postwar international order, the Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, the NATO, and the Korean War. Though controversial, Truman is now widely regarded as one of the most consequential presidents of the post World War world.

Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969) was the 34th president of the United States and a five-star general who served as Supreme Allied Commander in Europe during World War II. As president from 1953 to 1961, he brought the Korean War to an end, strengthened America’s position in the Cold War, oversaw the creation of the Interstate Highway System, and took federal action to enforce school desegregation. Eisenhower left office as one of the most respected American leaders of the twentieth century.

Lyndon B. Johnson (1908-1973) was the 36th president of the United States, known for advancing the Great Society, landmark civil rights legislation, and major federal programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. His presidency also became deeply associated with the Vietnam War, which escalated dramatically during his administration and divided the American public.

Ronald Reagan (1911-2004) was the 40th president of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989 after a career as a Hollywood actor, labor leader, and governor of California. His presidency ushered in a conservative political era marked by tax cuts, deregulation, increased defense spending, and a forceful approach to the Cold War, followed by improved relations and arms-control negotiations with the Soviet Union.

Richard Nixon (1913-1994) was the 37th President of the United States, serving from 1969 to 1974, and was one of the most controversial presidents of the twentieth century. He achieved major foreign-policy breakthroughs by opening relations with Communist China, pursuing Détente with the Soviet Union, and the withdrawal from Vietnam. His presidency was ultimately brought down by the Watergate scandal, making him the only U.S. president to resign from office.

Gerald Ford (1913-2006) was the 38th president of the United States, assuming office in 1974 after Richard Nixon resigned. A longtime congressman and former vice president, Ford sought to restore trust in the federal government while confronting inflation, unemployment, the Watergate scandal, and the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Ford is remembered for providing stability and helping the nation recover.