Hubert Humphrey

Filed under:
U.S. Vice Presidents
Event date:
May 27, 2025 (This event repeats every year)
Location:
Codington County, South Dakota
Born:
May 27, 1911 (114 years ago)
Died:
January 13, 1978 (66 years old)
Description:

Hubert Humphrey (1911 - 1978) was an American politician who served as the 38th Vice President of the United States from 1965 to 1969 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. A member of the Democratic Party, Humphrey was a passionate advocate for civil rights, social justice, and the expansion of the welfare state.

Born in Wallace, South Dakota on May 27, 1911, Humphrey began his political career as the mayor of Minneapolis before serving in the U.S. Senate from 1949 to 1964. As a senator, he was known for his strong support of the civil rights movement, working to pass landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He was also instrumental in promoting progressive domestic policies, including Medicare and Medicaid.

In 1964, Humphrey was selected as Lyndon B. Johnson’s running mate, and he served as vice president during the Johnson administration. Humphrey's tenure as vice president coincided with key moments in American history, including the Civil Rights Movement and the escalation of the Vietnam War. Although he supported many of Johnson's policies, he became increasingly critical of the Vietnam War, which created tension between him and other members of the administration.

In 1968, Humphrey ran for president but lost a contentious election to Richard Nixon. He made a comeback in the 1970s, returning to the Senate and continuing to champion progressive causes, including civil rights and social welfare.

Humphrey's legacy is defined by his deep commitment to social justice, his leadership in advancing civil rights, and his role in shaping the modern Democratic Party.