About this Exhibit

The power of the executive branch of the U.S. government has grown substantially since its inception, continuing and expanding its influence on all facets of American political life. The impact of the U.S. presidency has evolved particularly in relation to civil rights, foreign relations and the handling of war and peace. The influence of the media has altered presidential policy. In this Vanderbilt University Special Collections and Archives exhibit, we use artifacts to convey the challenges and triumphs of the American presidency and its extensive role in American politics.