The Unusual Presidency of William Taft

William Taft's presidency was marked by several notable firsts. As the 27th President of the United States, he embraced technological advancements, becoming the first president to have an official White House automobile and use the Oval Office. Taft also initiated the tradition of throwing the first pitch at a Major League Baseball game. A strong advocate for the separation of powers, he urged the construction of a new Supreme Court building and later became the only person to serve as both President and Chief Justice. Taft's funeral was the first to be broadcast on radio, and he was the first president buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Despite these firsts, he was also the last president to keep a cow at the White House.

What was one of the unique accomplishments of William Taft during his presidency?

• He was the first president to fly in an airplane.

• He was the first president to have an official White House automobile.

• He was the first president to visit Europe.

• He was the first president to have a pet dog in the White House.

What tradition did William Taft start in Major League Baseball?

• Awarding the MVP trophy

• Throwing the first pitch

• Singing the national anthem before games

• Hosting the All-Star Game

What was Taft's belief regarding the branches of government?

• He believed in the separation of powers.

• He believed in a single-party system.

• He believed in a monarchy.

• He believed in merging the branches.

What unique distinction did Taft hold after his presidency?

• He was the only president to serve in the military after his term.

• He was the only president to win a Nobel Prize.

• He was the only president to become a senator.

• He was the only president to become a Supreme Court Justice.

Where was William Taft the first president to be buried?

• Arlington National Cemetery

• The White House Lawn

• The Lincoln Memorial

• Mount Vernon