The American Presidents – Washington to Obama

The President is the only person in the American system who represents all the people. The primary duty of the president of the United States is to make sure that all U.S. laws are carried out and that the federal government is run effectively. In addition, the president has the weighty role of the commander in chief of the armed forces. As the nation's chief executive, the president oversees foreign policy, making treaties with foreign nations and appointing ambassadors to other nations and to the United Nations. He also appoints members of the Cabinet, as well as Supreme Court justices and federal judges. A president's capacity as an organizer includes his ability to forge a team and get the most out of it for the nation and its people. Some presidents have been fortunate to possess an inordinate visionary ability. This ability reinforced the “Great American Dream,” and enabled some presidents to inspire the hopes of the American nation.