M Calvin Coolidge

Calvin Coolidge (1872–1933), the 30th President (1923–1929), assumed office upon Harding’s death and was later elected in his own right. Nicknamed “Silent Cal” for his terse demeanor, Coolidge presided over the Roaring Twenties economic boom with a philosophy of small government and minimal regulation. He famously said, “the chief business of the American people is business,” reflecting his pro-business policies.

Interesting anecdote: Coolidge’s quiet personality gave rise to many stories. One famous tale recounts that at a dinner a woman bet she could get him to say more than two words. Coolidge’s reply to her was simply: “You lose.” This encapsulated his dry wit and brevity.