George W. Bush

George Walker Bush (born July 6, 1946) is an American politician who served as the 43rd President of the United States from 2001 to 2009. The son of former President George H. W. Bush, Bush followed his father into politics after a career in the Texas oil business and as Governor of Texas from 1995 to 2000. His presidency was dramatically shaped by the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, which prompted military responses in Afghanistan and Iraq, defining his administration's foreign policy. Bush championed conservative economic policies, tax cuts, and an interventionist approach to international affairs, framing his presidency as part of a broader 'War on Terror.' His administration was marked by significant polarization over Iraq's weapons of mass destruction claims and the ensuing war, which became controversial as no such weapons were found. Despite initial high approval ratings following 9/11, Bush's popularity declined through his second term as the Iraq War proved costly in lives and resources. After leaving office, Bush has maintained a relatively quiet public presence, occasionally speaking on political matters and engaging in philanthropy through the George W. Bush Presidential Center.