Who Is the Only U.S. President Born on the 4th of July?

Hajnen Payson, March 1, 2022

The 4^th of July is commonly referred to as America’s “birthday,” but did you know that it’s also the actual birthday of one United States president? Who is the only U.S. president born on the 4^th of July?

Calvin Coolidge, the country’s 30^th president, was born on July 4, 1872 in Plymouth Notch, Vermont. Read on to get to know more about him, as well as other important American historical moments that occurred on July 4^th.

Early years

Born John Calvin Coolidge, Jr., America’s 30^th president was the first of two children, although his sister died at the age of 15. His father, John Calvin Coolidge, Sr., lived a life of public service at the local level, instilling that spirit in his young son.

In his college years, Calvin Coolidge, Jr. attended law school in Massachusetts. Following graduation, he soon became a rising star in local politics, holding offices including city councilman and city solicitor before becoming a representative in the state legislature. Eventually, he became governor of Massachusetts, holding the highest office in the state and furthering his political ambitions.

Vice presidency

As Calvin Coolidge continued to make a mark in Massachusetts’s state politics, he was picked to run for vice president on a ticket with Warren G. Harding, a Senator from Ohio, in 1920. While the vice presidency didn’t come with many official duties, Coolidge became a high-profile figure in Washington society, due in large part to the outgoing personality of his wife, Grace Coolidge.

Things changed in a big way for Coolidge in 1923, when President Harding suddenly died of a heart attack while visiting California for a speaking engagement. Due to the presidential line of succession, Coolidge succeeded Harding as the country’s 30^th president.

Presidency

Calvin Coolidge became president on August 3, 1923, at 2:47 a.m. As a notary public, his father swore him into office from his family home in Vermont. The next day, Coolidge returned to Washington, where he was then re-sworn by Adolph A. Hoehling, District of Columbia Supreme Court Justice.

The public was happy with Coolidge, as he was elected in his own right in 1924. He served only a single full term and did not run for re-election in 1928. Instead, he chose to return to Northampton with his wife, where he served in various roles in organizations, societies and colleges.

Death and legacy

Coolidge died suddenly of a heart attack on January 5, 1933. While he only served one term, the impact of Calvin Coolidge is still felt today. The 30^th president believed that government should be silent in order to function at its best. While he took part in press conferences and discussions, he simply believed an ideal government should do less to interfere with the lives of everyday people, hence his nickname “Silent Cal.”

Calvin Coolidge dedicated over half of his life in office to serving and protecting Massachusetts citizens. While the public admired him during his presidency, the Great Depression caused the public to question some of the policies he enacted during his tenure. In later years, Coolidge regained positive public opinion due to his hands-off leadership that produced several years of economic prosperity, balanced budgets and peace.

United States presidents who died on July 4^th

July 4^th is also a historic day for some more somber moments in American history, namely the deaths of three of our founding fathers who all happened to later serve as president, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and James Monroe. In fact, Jefferson and Adams passed on the same day, July 4, 1826. Upon their deaths, there was only one remaining signer of the Declaration of Independence still living, Charles Carroll. Monroe died five years later.

Independence Day is a day to reflect on the history of America, as well as the presidents who have guided us through times of war and peace alike. On the next 4^th of July—or any day of the year, really—showcase your American pride by wearing patriotic clothing from The Flag Shirt. Check out our selection and grab 4th of July shirts, jackets and accessories to show your love for your country. Be sure to take advantage of our free shipping offer on orders of $50 or more!