Final answer:
Franklin D. Roosevelt granted the most clemencies in U.S. history.
Step-by-step explanation:
The President who has granted the most pardons and commuted or rescinded convictions in U.S. history is Franklin D. Roosevelt. During his presidency from 1933 to 1945, Roosevelt issued a total of 3,687 executive clemencies. This included pardons, commutations, and respites, which are temporary postponements of sentences.
Roosevelt's use of his clemency powers was motivated by a desire to promote national unity and healing during the challenging times of the Great Depression and World War II. He considered clemency requests on a case-by-case basis and used it as a mechanism to offer second chances or alleviate disproportionate punishments.
It is worth noting that while Roosevelt holds the record for the most clemencies granted, the specific number and types of clemency actions can vary depending on the source and criteria used for counting.
Learn more about Presidential pardons and commutations