Fun Facts About Woodrow Wilson
1914 portrait photograph of Woodrow Wilson by Harris & Ewing
Woodrow Wilson, the 28th president of the United States, is best known for leading the country through World War I and helping to create the League of Nations. But did you know these six fun and little-known facts about him?
1. He Was the Only U.S. President with a Ph.D.
Wilson loved learning! He was the only U.S. president to earn a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy). He studied political science and history at Johns Hopkins University, which helped him become both a professor and a college president before leading the country.
2. He Used to Be President… of a University!
Before becoming president of the United States, Wilson was president of Princeton University. He worked to improve the school and make education more accessible to students from all backgrounds.
3. He Loved Riding His Bicycle—Until a Crash
As a young man, Wilson loved riding his bicycle everywhere. But one day, he crashed into a tree and got seriously injured. After that, he preferred walking, and he later became one of the first presidents to ride around in a car instead of on horseback.
4. He Kept a Flock of Sheep on the White House Lawn
During World War I, Wilson wanted to help the war effort in creative ways. So instead of using government workers to cut the grass, he let a flock of sheep roam the White House lawn! Their wool was sold, and the money was donated to support the war.
5. He Didn’t Like Talking to People—But Was Great at Speeches
Wilson was very shy and didn’t enjoy small talk. But when it came to giving speeches, he was one of the best! He gave over 40 speeches across the country to promote his ideas, including the League of Nations, which helped set the stage for today’s United Nations.
6. He Was the First President to Watch a Movie in the White House
Wilson was the first U.S. president to watch a movie in the White House! The film was "The Birth of a Nation", a silent film from 1915. Today, the White House still has a private movie theater where presidents and their families watch films.
