THE PEACE AND PROSPERITY PRESIDENT

General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s popularity soared after World War II (1939–1945). Both Republicans and Democrats wanted him to be their candidate for president. President Harry S. Truman, a Democrat, brought up the subject twice, but Eisenhower refused the offer both times. He said the country was better off “when lifelong professional soldiers . . . abstain from seeking high political office.”

Republicans began a campaign to draft Eisenhower to run for president. Voters learned to spell his name so they could write it on ballots. Eisenhower was often referred to in the press by his nickname, “Ike.” “I Like Ike” buttons and bumper stickers appeared everywhere. It became one of the most memorable campaign slogans in history. Inspired by the show of support, Eisenhower declared he was a Republican candidate for president in 1952. He won a huge victory over his Democratic opponent, Illinois governor Adlai Stevenson.

Eisenhower set a agenda that balanced the traditional Republican policy of limited government with his own belief that government should help people in need. He called it Modern Republicanism. Breaking from conservative Republicans, Eisenhower kept New Deal programs in place. The New Deal had been set up by Democratic president Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s. It provided aid and support to Americans during the tough years of the Great Depression.