It is often claimed that the job of the President of the United States is one of the most demanding vocations in the world. Through the life of one man, an entire nation lies dependent on that individual's ability to make fast and effective decisions using only the greatest of wit. Fortunately, there have been noble men in history who, through innumerable trials and tribulations, have attested to their ability to hold the image of national President. Lyndon Baines Johnson was such an individual who fervently proved his worth. Through his strong domestic and foreign policies, ideals, and innate values, he worked to satiate and feed a hungry nation. .
A close analysis of Johnson's heritage will better one's ability to understand his political nature and goals and ideals as a national leader. He was born in a family owned farm in Texas, in 1908 (Encarta 2001, "Johnson, Lyndon Baines".) Growing up, Johnson understood what it was to live in hardship and poverty. Because his family farm was not particularly prosperous, Johnson engaged in odd jobs such as picking fruit, washing cars, and other sorts of manual labor (Goodwin, Doris 24.) Suffering from financial struggles, his family was forced to move into the city, where Johnson discovered his colorful nature and passion for politics (Encarta 2001, "Johnson, Lyndon Baines".) This humble chapter of Johnson's life nevertheless was significant for the fact that it gave direction and purpose to his domestic policies as President. .
Johnson was never known to be an innovator of programs or ideas, but excelled at getting things done (Encarta 2001, "Johnson, Lyndon Baines".) The date of November 21, 1963 solidified a turning point in Johnson's life during an event when he and President Kennedy were trying to resolve disputes between conservative democrats. Unfortunately, Kennedy was shot and killed while riding in a car with Johnson. Just hours later on an emergency flight back to Washington D.