ERA 10: Contemporary United States (1968 to the present)
Clinton's Legacy, by Kevin Baker
Guiding Questions
What is the legacy of President Bill Clinton?
What factors influence historical perspectives of a president’s legacy?
Was Clinton more successful after leaving the White House?
What expectations should the American people have for their president?
Question Focus Example for Task 24: President Clinton was more successful after leaving the White House than he was as president.
Bill Clinton
Teacher-to-Teacher
Bill Clinton’s presidency is probably most well-known for the impeachment process and the Monica Lewinsky affair; however, other factors clearly must be weighed when determining a presidential legacy. The American Heritage article compares Clinton to Calvin Coolidge. Of the included primary sources, the Ashbrook Center is a well-known conservative body while NPR has a liberal reputation. Taken with Clinton’s words and actions, this collection provides students an opportunity to form their own opinion of Clinton’s legacy.