Biography of Joe Biden
Early Life and Childhood
Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was born on November 20, 1942, in
Scranton, Pennsylvania, to Catherine Eugenia "Jean" Biden (née
Finnegan) and Joseph Robinette Biden Sr. He was the eldest of four siblings in
a Catholic family. His father struggled financially during Joe’s early years,
working various jobs to support the family. In the 1950s, the Biden family
moved to Claymont, Delaware, where Joe’s father eventually found steady work as
a used car salesman.
Biden grew up with a tremendous sense of endurance and resilience. He put a lot of effort into getting over his crippling stammer. To get better at speaking, he recited poetry and practiced speaking in front of a mirror. His sensitivity and perseverance, qualities that would serve him well in life, were shaped by this early adversity.
Education
Biden was an exceptional athlete at Claymont's exclusive Catholic high school, Archmere Academy, where he played football and participated in other sports. Even though he was an excellent athlete, he struggled academically and frequently needed to put in a lot of effort to preserve his grades.
Biden studied in political science and history at the University of Delaware in Newark after graduating from high school. He became interested in politics while attending the university and was motivated to serve the public by John F. Kennedy's call to action. Biden received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1965.
Biden attended Syracuse University College of Law after completing his undergraduate studies, where he graduated with a Juris Doctor in 1968. Even though he had academic difficulties during his time in law school, he persisted in getting his degree.
Personal Life of
In 1966, while still in law school, Joe Biden married Neilia
Hunter, whom he had met on a spring break trip to the Bahamas. The couple had
three children: Joseph R. "Beau" Biden III, Robert Hunter Biden, and
Naomi Christina Biden.
The Biden family suffered a tragedy in December of 1972. A automobile accident claimed the lives of Neilia and their one-year-old daughter Naomi shortly after Joe Biden was elected to the U.S. Senate. Despite having severe injuries, Beau and Hunter managed to live. Biden was crushed by the death and thought about leaving the Senate to take care of his boys. But he was talked into continuing his political career, and at the hospital where his sons were receiving treatment, he took the oath of office.
In 1977, Biden married Jill Tracy Jacobs, an educator. The
couple has one daughter, Ashley Blazer Biden, born in 1981. Jill Biden has been
a steadfast partner throughout Joe’s political career, often playing a
significant role in his campaigns and public service.
Early Career and Entry into Politics
Biden returned to Delaware after graduating from law school and started working for a nearby firm. His rapid involvement in local politics was demonstrated by his 1970–1972 term in the New Castle County Council. During his tenure on the council, he established himself as a devoted public servant who prioritizes community concerns.
In 1972, at the age of 29, Biden ran for the U.S. Senate from Delaware. He faced a tough incumbent, Senator J. Caleb Boggs, but ran an energetic campaign focused on civil rights, environmental issues, and ending the Vietnam War. Biden became one of the youngest people ever elected to the U.S. Senate after winning the election despite being comparatively unknown and vastly outspent.
Senate Career
Biden represented Delaware as a U.S. Senator for 36 years, from 1973 to 2009. Throughout his term, he established himself as a capable and realistic lawmaker who could collaborate with members of other political parties.
Key Legislative Achievements
- Violence
Against Women Act (VAWA): The 1994 passing of the Violence Against Women Act was one of Biden's greatest legislative accomplishments. This historic law gave the federal government tools to fight sexual assault, domestic abuse, and stalking. VAWA is recognized for having greatly enhanced the social and legal services offered to victims of abuse.
- Foreign
Relations: Biden had a significant influence on the direction of US foreign policy while serving as a member and then chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He promoted human rights, nonproliferation, and arms control while taking part in significant negotiations. In the 1990s, he was a fervent supporter of US intervention in the Balkans and NATO expansion.
- Criminal
Justice: Biden was also involved in criminal justice reform, although
some of his positions, such as his support for the 1994 crime bill, have
been controversial. The bill included provisions that led to increased
incarceration rates, particularly affecting minority communities. In
recent years, Biden has acknowledged the negative consequences of some
aspects of the bill and has called for reforms to address systemic issues
in the criminal justice system.
Presidential Runs
Biden’s ambition to become president was evident early in
his career. He ran for the Democratic presidential nomination twice before his
successful campaign in 2020.
1988 Campaign
In 1988, Biden's first presidential campaign did not last long. He was accused of plagiarizing from speeches and scholarly papers, which sparked a heated debate. After coming under heavy fire, Biden announced his withdrawal from the contest, admitting that his campaign had not sufficiently addressed the problems brought up.
2008 Campaign
In an overcrowded Democratic field, Biden found it difficult to generate traction when he campaigned for president again in 2008. He tried to appeal to a wide range of voters by emphasizing his vast experience in international policy, but he was unsuccessful. Following a dismal showing in the Iowa caucuses, Biden withdrew. But his campaigning paid off, and later that year he was chosen to be Barack Obama's running mate.
Vice Presidency (2009-2017)
Under President Barack Obama, Joe Biden held the position of 47th Vice President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. During his time as vice president, he worked closely with Obama and had a big impact on both foreign and domestic affairs.
Domestic Policy
In the administration's attempts to resolve the economic crisis that followed the financial collapse of 2008, Biden was instrumental. He was in charge of carrying out the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, a significant stimulus plan designed to boost the economy and preserve jobs. Biden's handling of the Recovery Act received high marks for being transparent and successful.
In addition, he supported middle-class causes such as accessible education, pay increases, and the development of jobs. In addition to working on legislation to advance infrastructure and technological innovation, Biden oversaw programs to assist American industry.
Foreign Policy
As vice president, Biden made a lot of international trips to represent the United States in diplomatic missions. He was instrumental in establishing U.S. strategy in Iraq, assisting in the troop departure, and promoting stability in the nation. In addition, Biden concentrated on bolstering ties with allies and tackling international issues including the spread of nuclear weapons and climate change.
2020 Presidential Campaign of Biden
In April 2019, Biden announced his candidacy for the 2020
presidential election. His campaign focused on restoring the “soul of America,”
addressing issues such as healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality.
He emphasized his experience and ability to unite the country in contrast to
the divisive presidency of Donald Trump.
Sen. Kamala Harris, a South Asian and African American woman, became the first female nominee for national office by a major party when Biden won the Democratic nomination and chose her as his running mate.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the 2020 campaign, necessitating changes to the narrative and strategy. Biden detailed his strategy to fight the virus, boost the economy, and advance racial justice while criticizing the Trump administration's response to the outbreak.
With more than 81 million votes—the largest in American history—Biden emerged victorious in the presidential contest on November 3, 2020. The Electoral College went to him 306 to 232. The Trump campaign falsely claimed that Biden had been elected president, but his victory was upheld in court, and on January 20, 2021, he took office as the 46th President of the United States.
Presidency (2021-Present)
Early Actions and Policies
Biden’s presidency began amid significant challenges,
including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, economic struggles, and deep political
divisions. He quickly took action to address these issues, signing a series of
executive orders and working with Congress to pass major legislation.
- COVID-19
Response: Biden gave the pandemic response top priority and put in place a detailed plan to boost testing, expedite vaccination distribution, and offer financial assistance. Passed in March 2021, the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan is a stimulus plan that supports local governments, businesses, and Americans directly while also extending unemployment benefits.
- Climate
Change: On his first day in office, Biden announced bold initiatives to combat climate change and reaffirmed the Paris Agreement. His administration prioritized environmental justice, cutting carbon emissions, and making the switch to clean energy.
- Infrastructure
and Economy: Through the American Jobs Plan, Biden suggested large-scale infrastructure expenditures with the goal of modernizing transportation, enhancing broadband access, and generating millions of new jobs. The American Families Plan aimed to assist American families with childcare, healthcare, and education.
Foreign Policy
Rebuilding relationships and regaining American leadership on the international scene were key components of Biden's foreign policy agenda. His main areas of interest were multilateralism, getting again involved with international organizations, and tackling pressing issues like cybersecurity, human rights, and climate change.
Conclusion
Joe Biden's life and career have been characterized by fortitude, devotion, and a love of serving the public good. Biden's career, from his early years in Scranton to his time serving as Vice President and now as President, demonstrates his unwavering faith in the potential of America and the ability of politics to better people's lives. In navigating the obstacles of his presidency, Biden's legacy will be molded by his endeavors to bring the nation together, tackle urgent problems, and create a brighter future for every American.
FAQs
1. Where and when was Joe Biden born?
Joe Biden was born on November 20, 1942, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA.
2. What was Joe Biden's childhood like?
Joe Biden grew up in a middle-class family in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and later moved to Claymont, Delaware. His childhood was marked by financial struggles and a debilitating stutter, which he worked hard to overcome.
3. Where did Joe Biden go to school?
Biden attended Archmere Academy, a private Catholic high school in Claymont, Delaware. He earned his bachelor's degree in history and political science from the University of Delaware and a Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law.
4. Who are Joe Biden's family members?
Joe Biden's parents were Joseph Robinette Biden Sr. and Catherine Eugenia "Jean" Biden. He has three siblings. He married Neilia Hunter in 1966, and they had three children: Beau, Hunter, and Naomi. After Neilia and Naomi's tragic death in 1972, Biden married Jill Tracy Jacobs in 1977, and they have a daughter, Ashley.
5. What significant event marked Joe Biden's early political career?
In 1972, at the age of 29, Joe Biden was elected to the U.S. Senate from Delaware, becoming one of the youngest senators in U.S. history. Shortly after his election, his wife Neilia and daughter Naomi were killed in a car accident, and his sons Beau and Hunter were seriously injured.
6. What are some of Joe Biden's key legislative achievements as a U.S. Senator?
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA): Passed in 1994, providing federal resources to combat domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
- Foreign Relations: Involved in key negotiations and advocated for arms control, nonproliferation, and human rights.
- Criminal Justice: Played a role in the 1994 crime bill, which has been controversial for its impact on incarceration rates.
7. How many times did Joe Biden run for president before winning in 2020?
Joe Biden ran for president twice before his successful campaign in 2020. He first ran in 1988 and then again in 2008, withdrawing early in both campaigns.
8. What role did Joe Biden play as Vice President under Barack Obama?
As Vice President from 2009 to 2017, Biden focused on economic recovery efforts, overseeing the implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and played a significant role in foreign policy, including U.S. policy in Iraq and relations with NATO allies.
9. What were the main focuses of Joe Biden's 2020 presidential campaign?
Biden’s 2020 campaign focused on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare, climate change, economic inequality, and restoring the “soul of America.” He emphasized unity and his experience in government as key factors.
10. What were Joe Biden's early actions as President?
- COVID-19 Response: Implemented a comprehensive plan for vaccine distribution, testing, and economic relief.
- Climate Change: Rejoined the Paris Agreement and outlined plans for clean energy and carbon emission reduction.
- Infrastructure and Economy: Proposed significant investments through the American Jobs Plan and the American Families Plan.
11. What are Joe Biden's foreign policy priorities?
Biden's foreign policy emphasizes rebuilding alliances, engaging with international institutions, and addressing global challenges such as climate change, cybersecurity, and human rights.
12. What personal challenges has Joe Biden faced?
Joe Biden has faced significant personal challenges, including overcoming a childhood stutter and coping with the tragic deaths of his first wife Neilia, daughter Naomi, and later his son Beau, who died of brain cancer in 2015.
