As the general who led the Allies to victory in Europe during World War II, Dwight D. Eisenhower enjoyed a postwar popularity that inspired thoughts in many quarters of running him for the presidency. But the much-revered "Ike," with his politically potent grin, did not initially want the office, and it was not until 1952 that Republicans finally prevailed upon him to seek it.

After Eisenhower left the White House in 1961, many political commentators indicated that they had not been especially impressed with this immensely popular President's performance. In time, however, Eisenhower's presidential ratings have risen, in the face of increasing appreciation for his sound fiscal policies and efforts to promote peaceful coexistence with the Soviet Union while still maintaining a strong posture against its threatened aggressions.

Eisenhower was serving as chief of staff of the United States Army when he sat for this portrait. As the general who had led the Allies to victory in Europe during World War II, he was, like many military heroes before him, inspiring much talk about his White House potential.

Thomas Edgar Stephens (1886-1966)
Oil on canvas, 1947
National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution
Transfer from the National Gallery of Art; gift of Ailsa Mellon Bruce
NPG.65.63

Enlarged image