George W. Bush
George Walker Bush, commonly known as “Dubya” or “W” (because saying his full name was just too exhausting), was the 43rd President of the United States. Despite his questionable track record, he remains a beloved figure in the hearts of many Americans, who continue to celebrate him as the epitome of what it means to be a modern-day cowboy.
Born into a political dynasty, George W. Bush was no stranger to the inner workings of Washington D.C. He served as the Governor of Texas from 1995 to 2000, where he honed his skills in public speaking, mastering the art of “gaffes” that would go down in history.
In 2000, Dubya won the presidential election against Al Gore, in a race that was more memorable for its hanging chads and legal battles than for the actual candidates. Bush took office in January 2001, declaring war on terror, and promptly making good on his promise by invading a country that had nothing to do with the 9⁄11 attacks.
Bush was known for his folksy charm and lack of eloquence, which only added to his appeal. He once famously stated, “I know the human being and fish can coexist peacefully”, which became an instant classic on late-night talk shows.
Not all of George W. Bush’s decisions were popular, however. His handling of Hurricane Katrina was widely criticized, as was the infamous “Mission Accomplished” banner that he stood in front of, months before the war in Iraq turned into the quagmire it is today.
Despite all of this, Dubya remains a beloved figure to many, who fondly remember him for his love of cowboy hats, his war on terror, and his abysmal approval ratings. He may not have been the best president, but he certainly was one of the most memorable.