Final answer:
William Jefferson Clinton was the 42nd president of the United States, known for his New Democrat stance and economic policies resulting in growth and a reduced budget deficit. Despite controversies, he remained popular and was re-elected in 1996, defeating Bob Dole.
Step-by-step explanation:
William Jefferson Clinton, born in 1946, became the 42nd president of the United States after a political career as governor of Arkansas. His presidency, which spanned from 1992 to 2000, was marked by significant events and policies that shaped the nation's direction. Clinton was known for being a New Democrat, advocating for policies such as free trade and deregulation, while also pushing for higher taxes on the affluent and welfare reform to appeal to the middle class.
Clinton's time in office was distinguished by economic growth and his handling of the budget deficit. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993, passed during his term, targeted reducing the nation's large deficit and was instrumental in the economic prosperity of the 1990s. Despite facing controversies and impeachment proceedings, Clinton remained a popular figure and left office with a high approval rating.
His presidency was indeed competitive as he won against opponents like Bob Dole in the 1996 election, and over time, his policies and leadership style have been both lauded and critiqued by historians and political analysts alike.