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Herbert Hoover Day – August 10, 2024

Herbert Hoover Day is celebrated on August 10 every year. This marks the birth anniversary of the 31st President of the United States, where his legacy is celebrated and accomplishments highlighted. Known as “the great humanitarian,” Hoover spent his life helping the poor and reaching out to the less fortunate, including feeding the war-torn citizens of Europe during WWI. This day is a continuation of all his good deeds, serving as a reminder that people should extend their compassion and go the extra mile in reaching out a helping hand. Learn more about the ways you can celebrate Herbert Hoover Day.

History of Herbert Hoover Day

Herbert Hoover was born on August 10, 1874, in a small village in Iowa. He spent his childhood in Oregon where he displayed a precocious interest in maths and underground work. In 1891, he then pursued his passion at Stanford University by studying mining engineering. This is where he met his future wife, Lou Henry.

The couple went to China where Hoover worked as a lead engineer for a Chinese private corporation. However, in June 1900, the Boxer Rebellion caught the Hoovers. This was a group that embarked on a violent movement to drive all foreigners away from the mainland. During this period, his wife worked in hospitals while he conducted outreach programs, directed barricades, and even helped rescue children who were in danger.

By the time Hoover got back to the United States, he served as the Secretary of Commerce under the presidencies of Harding and Coolidge. This is when he tested the waters of politics and explored the possibilities of public service. In 1928, he became a Republican Presidential nominee. He eventually won the national elections during a crucial time in the U.S.: the start of the Great Depression and the stock market’s downward spiral. Well aware of the situation, Hoover implemented tax cuts, expanded the public works budget, and balanced federal expenses.

His tenure was met with both praise and criticism. While others praised his philanthropic efforts to help Americans, others criticized his lack of interference in foreign affairs. This affected others’ perceptions of him, which caused him to lose in the 1933 elections. He left the White House in March 1933.

Hoover spent his last days in New York and died on October 20, 1964, at the age of 90.

Herbert Hoover Day timeline

August 10, 1874
Birth of Herbert Hoover

Former U.S. President Herbert Hoover is born on August 10, which was the basis for the designation of Herbert Hoover Day.

1928
Career as Secretary of Commerce

Herbert Hoover became the Secretary of Commerce during Presidents Harding’s and Coolidge’s presidential terms.

1929
31st President of the United States

After becoming a Republican candidate, Hoover wins the presidential election.

1933
End of the Hoover Presidency

Hoover ends his term and departs the White House.

Herbert Hoover Day FAQs

What did U.S. President Herbert Hoover do to fight unemployment during the Great Depression?

Hoover founded the President’s Emergency Committee for Employment (P.E.C.E.) to coordinate relief programs both locally and nationally.

What is Herbert Hoover’s presidency famous for?

Hoover’s presidency was known for unprecedented prison reforms, child health and protection programs, and the foundation of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation.

Was the Hoover Dam named after the U.S. President Herbert Hoover?

Yes, the Hoover Dam was named after U.S. President Herbert Hoover when it was constructed on September 30, 1930.

How to Observe Herbert Hoover Day

  1. Visit the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

    If you’re an outdoorsy person, this activity is for you. Check out the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, which offers two miles of cross-country skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing.

  2. Tour the Presidential Library and Museum

    Learn more about the legacy of former U.S. President Hoover at the Presidential Library and Museum. This is maintained by the National Archives and Records Administration where his life and career are showcased through galleries.

  3. Enjoy a day of picnic

    Visit the spot where the former U.S. President Hoover picnicked for his 80th birthday! It’s also in the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site where you can pack an outdoor picnic with your friends and family.

5 Interesting Facts About Herbert Hoover

  1. He became an orphan at age nine

    Hoover’s father died of a heart attack when he was six, and his mother passed away three years later from pneumonia.

  2. He used to be a millionaire

    Hoover became a millionaire at the age of 27.

  3. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize

    For his humanitarian work during the Great Depression, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize five times during his lifetime.

  4. The first American T.V. broadcast

    On April 7, 1927, his voice and image were broadcasted in the first T.V. demonstration in U.S. history.

  5. Hooverball

    The sport “Hooverball” was dedicated to Herbert Hoover who was known for his fitness and athleticism.

Why Herbert Hoover Day is Important

  1. He was a humanitarian

    We love a historical figure who has done incredible humanitarian work to help fight starvation. This is an admirable attribute of Herbert Hoover that continues to inspire people even decades after his death.

  2. His story is unsung

    Not many people know about the historical value and national contributions of Herbert Hoover during his term as president. This day allows many people to learn about his legacy.

  3. His ambition is inspiring

    Herbert Hoover once said, “If a man has not made a million dollars by the time he is forty, he is not worth much.” His boldness and ambition in achieving his goals are worth looking up to.

Herbert Hoover Day dates

YearDateDay
2024August 10Saturday
2025August 10Sunday
2026August 10Monday
2027August 10Tuesday
2028August 10Thursday

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