Calvin Coolidge: The Farm Boy Who Became America's 30th President
Summary
This episode of Our American Stories chronicles the life of 30th President Calvin Coolidge, featuring narrator Matthew Denhart and impersonator Tracy Messer. It traces Coolidge’s journey from his humble upbringing in Plymouth Notch, Vermont, through his political rise and decisive handling of the Boston police strike. The narrative covers his unexpected ascension to the presidency, his policies of fiscal conservatism during the Roaring Twenties, and his voluntary decision not to seek re-election.
Topics discussed
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Calvin Coolidge's birth and upbringing in Plymouth Notch
Coolidge's parents, values, and rural New England life
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Coolidge's education at Amherst and legal apprenticeship
Meeting Grace Goodhue and early political career
The 1919 Boston Police Strike and rise to Vice President
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Harding's death and Coolidge's oath of office in Vermont
Presidency: Economy, tax cuts, and the Roaring Twenties
Tragedy of Calvin Jr. and decision not to seek re-election
Retirement, death, and simple legacy
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