Barack Obama

Barack Obama (born 4 August 1961) is an American politician, lawyer and author who served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. A member of the Democratic Party, he was the first African American to be elected president.

Early life and career

Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and studied law at Harvard, where he was the first Black president of the Harvard Law Review. He worked as a community organiser and civil-rights lawyer in Chicago before entering politics, serving in the Illinois State Senate and then the United States Senate.

Presidency

Elected in 2008 amid a global financial crisis, Obama signed the economic stimulus act and the Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare"), a major expansion of health coverage. His administration oversaw the operation that killed Osama bin Laden, the Paris climate agreement, and the restoration of diplomatic ties with Cuba. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009.

Legacy

Obama is widely regarded as a gifted orator and a transformative political figure. After leaving office he remained active in public life through the Obama Foundation and his writing.

Frequently asked questions

When was Barack Obama president?

He served two terms, from January 2009 to January 2017.

What is Barack Obama known for?

Being the first African American U.S. president, the Affordable Care Act, and winning the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize.