Facts About President Warren Harding

Warren G. Harding, the 29th President of the United States, served in office from 1921 to 1923. Although his presidency was brief and largely forgotten, he played an important role in shaping the course of American history. Here are some interesting facts about this largely underrated president.

1. Harding was a newspaper publisher before he became president. He owned and ran the Marion Star newspaper in Ohio, where he gained extensive political experience and support.
2. He was the first president to speak over the radio. In 1922, Harding recorded a speech that was broadcasted live on the radio, making him the first president to utilize this new method of communication.
3. Harding supported civil rights for African Americans. He appointed several African Americans to high-profile government positions, including Robert Church, who became the first African American to head the Republican National Committee.
4. He was the first president to visit Canada. In 1923, Harding made a historic visit to Canada to meet with Prime Minister Mackenzie King and negotiate trade agreements between the two nations.
5. Harding was known for his scandalous affairs. While not uncommon for politicians of the time, Harding’s affairs were particularly notorious. One of his mistresses even wrote a tell-all book about their relationship after his death.
6. He was the first president to have his inauguration broadcasted on the radio. Harding’s inauguration in 1921 was broadcasted on the radio, allowing millions of Americans to tune in and experience the event.
7. Harding was the first president to own a radio in the White House. The president was an early adopter of new technologies, and in 1922 he acquired a radio for the White House, allowing him to stay up-to-date on news and events.
8. He was nicknamed “Wobbly Warren.” Harding was known for his flexible and indecisive leadership style, earning him the less-than-flattering nickname “Wobbly Warren.”
9. Harding died in office, making him one of several presidents who passed away during their time in office. He suffered a heart attack during a trip out of the White House and died a few days later.

While Harding’s presidency may have been clouded by scandal and controversy, he left his mark on American history in many ways. From his support of civil rights to his pioneering use of new technologies, Warren G. Harding will always be remembered as a progressive leader who helped to shape the course of our nation.