Presidents' Day is celebrated on the third Monday of every February. It began as an honor to George Washington's birthday, but now it honors all U.S. presidents, past and present. Each president has left a unique mark on the nation's history, and one of the most notable was Herbert Hoover, the first president born west of the Mississippi River.
Herbert Clark Hoover was born on August 10, 1874, in a two-room, whitewashed cottage built by his father in West Branch, Iowa, a small town situated west of the Mississippi River. Growing up in a Quaker family, Hoover learned the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion from an early age. These values would shape his future as a humanitarian and statesman.
Perhaps best remembered for the Hoover Dam and the Hoover Institute, named in his honor, Hoover's presidency was marked by his efforts to combat the Great Depression. Despite his best intentions, his administration was criticized for its handling of the economic crisis, leading to his defeat in the 1932 election.
Hoover's legacy, however, extends beyond his presidency. His humanitarian work during and after World War I earned him international recognition and admiration. He led relief efforts to feed starving populations in war-torn Europe and helped rebuild the devastated continent. His commitment to helping others in times of need underscored his belief in the power of compassion and cooperation.
In the years following his presidency, Hoover remained active in public service and continued his efforts to promote humanitarian causes. He served on various government commissions and advisory boards, offering his expertise and experience to address pressing issues facing the nation. Despite his political setbacks, Hoover's dedication to public service never wavered.
Walt Disney's "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" — the world's first full-length animation feature movie — continues to make history in Utica, a city west of the Mississippi River. The film's timeless tale of love, friendship, and courage resonates with audiences of all ages, much like Hoover's enduring commitment to service and compassion.
If you have ever said "OK," you have remembered this mostly-forgotten president. Herbert Hoover's impact on American history may have been overshadowed by the challenges of his time, but his legacy as the first U.S. president born west of the Mississippi River remains a testament to his resilience, compassion, and dedication to public service.
