Biography of Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson was born on December 28, 1856, in Staunton, Virginia. He studied at Princeton University and later earned a law degree from the University of Virginia. Wilson went on to earn a Ph.D. in political science and history from Johns Hopkins University. He served as the President of Princeton University from 1902 to 1910 before entering politics.

Political Career

Wilson was elected as the Governor of New Jersey in 1910, and his progressive policies gained national attention. In 1912, he won the presidential election as the Democratic candidate, defeating incumbent President William Howard Taft and former President Theodore Roosevelt, who ran as a third-party candidate.

Key Accomplishments

During his presidency, Wilson implemented several progressive reforms, including the establishment of the Federal Reserve System and the passage of antitrust legislation. He also advocated for labor rights and supported the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Wilson's foreign policy focused on promoting democracy and self-determination, and he led the United States through World War I.

League of Nations

One of Wilson's most significant initiatives was the proposal for the League of Nations, an international organization aimed at promoting peace and preventing future conflicts. Despite his efforts, the United States ultimately did not join the League of Nations, as the U.S. Senate refused to ratify the Treaty of Versailles.

Late Years and Legacy

After leaving office, Wilson remained active in public life and advocated for the League of Nations. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1919 for his efforts to promote peace and international cooperation. Wilson passed away on February 3, 1924, but his vision for a more peaceful world laid the groundwork for the establishment of the United Nations after World War II.