William Howard Taft, the 27th President of the United States, is famously known for his large stature. Weighing over 300 pounds, he was one of the heaviest presidents in U.S. history. Taft’s weight became a subject of public fascination during his presidency, and it led to the installation of a special bathtub in the White House.
Taft’s size and weight often overshadowed his political achievements, but he was a highly accomplished individual. Before becoming President, Taft held various government positions, including Secretary of War under President Theodore Roosevelt. In fact, he was handpicked by Roosevelt to succeed him as President.
During his time in office from 1909 to 1913, Taft implemented several significant policies and reforms. He focused on trust-busting and enforcing antitrust laws, which earned him a reputation as a progressive leader. Taft also advocated for the establishment of the Department of Labor and played a key role in the ratification of the 16th Amendment, which allowed for the implementation of a federal income tax.
Despite his political achievements, Taft’s weight often took center stage. His size became a source of fascination and even humor for the public. To accommodate his needs, a custom-made bathtub was installed in the White House. This bathtub was rumored to be large enough to hold four men, emphasizing Taft’s considerable size.
It is worth noting that Taft’s weight was not just a matter of personal appearance. It affected his health and mobility as well. Taft struggled with his weight throughout his life and made efforts to control it. He often faced challenges with physical activities and even had difficulty fitting into certain spaces and vehicles.
While Taft’s weight is a significant aspect of his legacy, it is important to remember his contributions as a leader. After leaving the presidency, Taft went on to become the only person in U.S. history to serve as both President and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. His judicial career further solidified his position as a prominent figure in American history.
William Howard Taft was the president who weighed more than 300 pounds. His size became a subject of public fascination and led to the installation of a custom bathtub in the White House. However, Taft’s weight should not overshadow his political achievements and contributions to American society.