Bill Clinton (born William Jefferson Clinton on August 19, 1946) served as the 42nd President of the United States from January 20, 1993 to January 20, 2001. A member of the Democratic Party, he grew up in Arkansas and took the surname Clinton from his stepfather, Roger Clinton Sr. He pursued a career in law and politics, serving as Governor of Arkansas before winning the presidency.
Clinton's two terms in office coincided with a period of significant economic growth and federal budget surpluses. Early priorities included a push for universal healthcare reform — which ultimately failed — and efforts to allow openly gay individuals to serve in the military.
