The United States president preserves, protects, and defends the U.S. Constitution. Each president’s term influences events in America and around the world for years to come. This biography introduces young readers to the life of William Taft, beginning with his childhood in Cincinnati, Ohio. Information about Taft’s education at Yale University and his early career as a lawyer, judge, and dean of the Cincinnati Law School is discussed. In addition, his family and personal life, as well as his retirement years are highlighted. Easy-to-read text details Taft’s political career as U.S. solicitor general under President Benjamin Harrison, governor of the Philippines under President William McKinley, secretary of war under President Theodore Roosevelt, and ultimately chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Finally, students will explore key events from Republican president Taft’s administration, including the signing of the Payne-Aldrich Tariff Act, the formation of the Tariff Board, and the establishment of the U.S. Children’s Bureau. Beautiful graphics showcase the primary source documents and photographs. A timeline, fast facts, and sidebars help put essential information at students’ fingertips. In addition, a quick-reference chart provides easy access to facts about every U.S. president. Checkerboard Library is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.