"The U.S. Presidency" traces the complicated evolution of the American presidency from 1789 to the present. From George Washington to Barack Obama, the distinct legacies and unique contributions of all 44 American presidents are discussed. Using a biographical format, special emphasis is given to the powerful convergence of personality and circumstance which transformed the office of our nation's chief executive into the most prominent and influential political office in the world. Challenging review questions encourage meaningful reflection and historical analysis. Tests, answer key, and bibliography included.