10 Facts About Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, served from 1913 to 1921 and left an indelible mark on both domestic and international affairs.

A leader of the Progressive Era, Wilson is known for his ambitious reforms, his leadership during World War I, and his vision for a peaceful world order through the League of Nations.

However, his presidency is also marked by contradictions, including his controversial stance on race and a late embrace of women’s suffrage.

Wilson’s legacy is a blend of significant achievements and deep flaws, making him one of the most complex and debated figures in American history. Here are ten fascinating facts about his life and presidency that provide a deeper understanding of his impact.

Woodrow Wilson Facts

1. Academic Background and Career

Before entering politics, Woodrow Wilson built a reputation as a prominent academic. He studied at Princeton University, the University of Virginia, and Johns Hopkins University.

Also Read: Woodrow Wilson Timeline

In 1902, he became the president of Princeton University, where he introduced sweeping reforms to make education more rigorous and accessible. His leadership focused on modernizing the curriculum and removing elitist traditions like the “eating clubs” that divided students by social class.

Woodrow Wilson

2. The Only President with a PhD

Wilson’s intellectual background was unique among U.S. presidents. His PhD in political science from Johns Hopkins University made him the first and, to date, only president with this level of academic achievement.

His dissertation, “Congressional Government,” critiqued the American legislative system and argued for a stronger executive branch, foreshadowing some of his later actions as president.

3. Governor of New Jersey

Wilson’s foray into politics began with his election as governor of New Jersey in 1910. During his two-year tenure, he passed progressive legislation, including electoral reform, workers’ compensation laws, and measures to combat corruption in state politics. His success as governor established him as a leading progressive figure, paving the way for his presidential campaign.

4. A Champion of Progressive Policies

As president, Wilson implemented significant progressive reforms under his “New Freedom” agenda. He supported small businesses by breaking up monopolies through the Clayton Antitrust Act and created the Federal Trade Commission to regulate unfair business practices.

Also Read: Accomplishments of Woodrow Wilson

His most enduring achievement was the creation of the Federal Reserve System, which established a central banking structure to stabilize the economy and control monetary policy.

Woodrow Wilson

5. Led the U.S. During World War I

Wilson initially maintained a policy of neutrality as World War I raged in Europe, reflecting the isolationist sentiment of many Americans.

However, events like Germany’s unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmermann Telegram, which revealed a German plot to ally with Mexico against the U.S., led Wilson to ask Congress to declare war in 1917. His leadership helped mobilize American resources and manpower, contributing to the Allied victory.

6. Advocate for the League of Nations

Wilson’s vision for a postwar world was rooted in his belief in diplomacy and international cooperation. His Fourteen Points outlined a framework for peace, including self-determination for nations and the establishment of the League of Nations.

Though the League was formed as part of the Treaty of Versailles, the U.S. Senate, citing concerns about sovereignty, rejected the treaty, and the U.S. did not join the League, a personal and political defeat for Wilson.

7. Nobel Peace Prize Winner

Wilson’s commitment to peace and his role in shaping the League of Nations earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1919.

He joined a select group of American leaders recognized for their efforts in fostering global harmony. The prize underscored his influence on international relations, even though his vision for the League failed to gain full support at home.

Woodrow Wilson

8. Suffered a Debilitating Stroke

In 1919, while campaigning to rally public support for the League of Nations, Wilson suffered a massive stroke that left him incapacitated for much of his remaining presidency.

His wife, Edith Wilson, effectively managed many presidential duties, leading some historians to describe her as the de facto president during this period. His health challenges significantly impacted his ability to govern during the critical postwar period.

9. Controversial Views on Race

Wilson’s presidency is often criticized for its racial policies. He oversaw the re-segregation of federal government offices, which had been integrated since Reconstruction. His administration’s actions reinforced racial discrimination and disenfranchisement.

Wilson also praised The Birth of a Nation, a film that glorified the Ku Klux Klan, further tarnishing his legacy on race relations.

10. A Legacy of Mixed Reviews

Wilson’s presidency remains a study in contrasts. On the one hand, his progressive reforms and vision for a peaceful international order reshaped American and global politics.

On the other hand, his racial policies and reluctance to initially support women’s suffrage highlighted his limitations. While many of his accomplishments endure, they are often evaluated alongside the controversies that complicate his legacy.