4. This Future President Was Once a Lifeguard
Long before entering politics, this Illinois native spent his summers working as a lifeguard and reportedly rescued dozens of swimmers.
5. He Was a College Football Star
Raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this future president became such a talented athlete that he received offers to play professional football after college. National Archives even highlights that presidential sports story in its childhood exhibition.
6. He Grew Up With a Love of Music
This California boy played several instruments while growing up, including violin, piano, clarinet, saxophone, and accordion.
7. This Future President Was a Talented Pianist
Growing up in Missouri, he loved history and music and practiced piano seriously long before beginning his political career.
8. He Learned to Read at a Very Young Age
His mother taught him to read by age four, and the Texas native later became a teacher before turning his attention to politics.
9. He Grew Up With Six Brothers
This future president spent his childhood in Abilene, Kansas, before choosing a military career that would make him famous around the world.
