George W. (George Walker) Bush

Born on July 6, 1946, in New Haven, Connecticut, George W. Bush grew up in a prominent political family and later earned degrees from Yale University and Harvard Business School. Before entering national politics, he worked in the oil business, was part-owner of the Texas Rangers baseball team, and served as governor of Texas from 1995 to 2000.

Bush became the 43rd president of the United States after the closely contested 2000 election and served two terms, from 2001 to 2009. His presidency is closely associated with the response to the September 11, 2001 attacks, including the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as domestic policies such as the No Child Left Behind Act and the creation of the Department of Homeland Security.

After leaving office, he has remained active through the George W. Bush Presidential Center. He has also become known for his painting, adding an unexpected creative chapter to a life more often defined by politics and public service.