Lyndon B. Johnson's presidency was marked by two major areas of involvement: his Great Society program—social legislation for civil rights, the "War on Poverty," and attempts to improve living standards; and his escalation (stepping up) of the American military presence in the Vietnam War (1954-75). Highlighting his impressive career as a persuasive political craftsman, Johnson's social programs made him among the most active and effective presidents. The Vietnam War, however, made him a troubled leader who left office at the low point of a distinguished career.

Johnson assumed the presidency amid national tragedy. The assassination (murder) of popular and idealistic President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963; see entry in volume 5) in 1963 stunned the nation. After Vice President Johnson was sworn in as president, he acted swiftly to restore stability to the grieving country. He was able to complete legislation Kennedy had put forward...