Obama Presidency Oral History
Documenting the 44th U.S. Presidency
Documenting the 44th U.S. Presidency
A comprehensive oral history project documenting the historic Obama administration through firsthand accounts of participants
Explore Interviews Learn About the ProjectDocumenting history through the voices of those who shaped it
The Obama Presidency Oral History Project is a non-partisan initiative to create a comprehensive record of the Obama administration through carefully conducted interviews with key participants.
Our team of historians and researchers has interviewed hundreds of administration officials, lawmakers, journalists, and outside observers to capture diverse perspectives on the policies, decisions, and events that defined this historic presidency.
This collection serves as an invaluable resource for scholars, journalists, policymakers, and citizens seeking to understand the Obama era from the inside.
Methodology & TeamFirsthand accounts from key participants in the Obama administration
Insider perspective on economic policy development during the financial crisis and recovery.
View TranscriptDecision-making processes in foreign policy and counterterrorism.
View TranscriptExplore major topics covered in the oral history collection
The passage and implementation of the Affordable Care Act
Responding to the financial crisis and Great Recession
From Iraq withdrawal to the Iran nuclear deal
Nominations and landmark decisions
2008 and 2012 campaigns and political strategy
Assessing the long-term impact of the administration
Key events and milestones of the Obama presidency
Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States
$787 billion stimulus package signed into law to address the financial crisis
Landmark healthcare reform legislation signed into law after contentious debate
Operation Neptune Spear results in death of Osama bin Laden
Obama defeats Mitt Romney to win second term as president
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action signed with Iran and world powers
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