Retardation may afflict a child not only before he is born, but afterwards.
Lyndon Johnson
The Public Record
Lyndon Baines Johnson was the 36th President of the United States, serving from 1963 to 1969. A member of the Democratic Party, he was born in Texas and began his political career as a U.S. Representative in 1937, later becoming a U.S. Senator in 1949. Johnson ascended to the presidency following the assassination of John F. Kennedy, and his administration is noted for significant domestic policies, including the Great Society programs aimed at eliminating poverty and racial injustice. His legislative achievements included the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid.
Twenty years ago it was dear to the leaders of Western Europe that our shield there was necessary to their future.
But they are real achievements and real accomplishments, and a failure in any one would make a lot of noise.
Actually, we decided to have the wedding here because of one of my most recent experiences in a church.
We are very happy this morning, Mrs. Johnson and I, to welcome all of you here to the East Room of the White House.
I am a Democrat because, in our time, the Democrats have been the party of hope.
Now I know, and you know, that there are many voices in this land which tell us that we must return to stagnation because of the war in Vietnam.