How much does the average American actually know about the men who have served as president of our country, especially when it comes to their lives before the presidency? For example: One of the biggest influences in George Washington's life was his older half-brother, Lawrence. Lyndon Baines Johnson was nameless until he was almost three months old. During his college days, Franklin Pierce formed lasting friendships with Nathaniel Hawthorne (who later wrote his campaign biography) and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Calvin Coolidge was sworn into the presidency by his own father. These and other fascinating facts regarding the American presidents can be found in this book.

From George Washington to George W. Bush, this book, ideal for students, compactly recounts the formative years of each president. Following each from childhood to young adulthood, it examines the events and influences that led each to the presidency and influenced his actions while in office. A concise summary of each presidential term is also included, along with notes regarding the post-presidency activities of each man. Finally, individual bibliographies offer sources for more information on each president.