09+Republicans+-+Popular+Presidents

Many things contribute to a President’s popularity, but many presidencies are made or broken by a significant event. Franklin Delano Roosevelt was a popular action because he undertook sweeping actions in the face of the great depression. Although his policies may not have worked, the appearance of dealing with the problem was enough to fortify his reputation. Reagan was praised for his dealings with attacks on Libya and the plane hijacking in Beruit. Crises allow a President to shine or fail. Obviously the greatest Presidents were successful in the face of a challenge.

Another quality of a popular President is ambition. Presidents must set lofty goals and then strive to achieve them. John F. Kennedy was popular because he set ambitious goals, like putting a man on the moon. Lincoln had his goals and never gave up. Although he changed his plans for achieving his goals, he never abandoned his goals. Presidents have clarity of vision, which is not contingent upon success.

Presidents also must be articulate and come from respectable professions. Reagan was articulate, having been an actor, and served as governor of California. JFK was a World War II hero, something that appeals to the American people. Obama was elected primarily for his speaking ability. A President must be articulate and have credibility if he is going to succeed.

No one thing determines a President’s success, but these are some of the characteristics that popular Presidents share.