Who Is George W. Bush?

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

• Would you want to be a part of a parent-child set of presidents?

• If so, would you rather be the parent or the child?
• Would you rather blaze the way and be the first to serve in the White House or would you rather be the child and follow in your father's footsteps?

Think about the two different situations and discuss your choice with your teacher or parent.

When George W. Bush took office, it was a controversial election from the start, because the state of Florida called for a recount of ballots, and the Supreme Court had to step in to make a final decision. As the newly-elected president, Bush was beginning to win over the American people when an event that will forever be etched in the minds of Americans happened.

George W. Bush took office in January, 2001, and the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil to-date took place only eight months later.

The four hijacked planes of September 11^th crashed into three buildings: the two World Trade Center Towers of New York City and the Pentagon near Washington, D.C. Another plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania. In all, 2,977 people were killed. This attack led to a War on Terror, as well as a new agency to help protect the United States people, called the Department of Homeland Security. Although this event was a defining factor of Bush's presidency, there is more to know about him and his legacy.

As you research George W. Bush, make a list of all the important facts you learn, and be prepared to create a timeline of his life (as of 2016), presidency, and legacy to the United States. Do so by watching the George W. Bush video below from the American Presidents series, and read George W. Bush: Impact and Legacy, from the University of Virginia Miller Center.

In the Got It? section, you will use the facts you have gathered to create a timeline of his life and presidency. Be prepared with your notes and information from this section.