Lyndon B. Johnson

Definition

Lyndon B. Johnson was the 36th President of the United States, serving from 1963 to 1969 after the assassination of John F. Kennedy. His administration is known for significant domestic policies, including those that advanced the exploration and exploitation of geothermal energy, reflecting a broader push for energy independence and environmental stewardship during the 1960s.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Johnson's administration created the Office of Economic Opportunity in 1964, which funded research in alternative energy sources, including geothermal energy.
2. He signed the Higher Education Act of 1965, which helped to establish funding for research programs related to geothermal resources.
3. Johnson's commitment to civil rights and social welfare also tied into a greater focus on sustainable development and energy conservation during his presidency.
4. The 1964 Geothermal Energy Technology Development Act was passed under his administration, laying the groundwork for future geothermal projects in the U.S.
5. Johnson's environmental policies, although less publicized, set the stage for future legislative measures aimed at addressing climate change and promoting renewable energy sources.

Review Questions

• How did Lyndon B. Johnson's domestic policies influence the development of geothermal energy in the United States?
  • Lyndon B. Johnson's domestic policies were pivotal in promoting geothermal energy development through initiatives like the Office of Economic Opportunity. This office funded research projects that explored renewable energy sources, reflecting his broader vision for a Great Society. By linking social progress with technological advancement, Johnson's administration laid foundational support for the growth of geothermal energy exploration and exploitation in the U.S.
• Evaluate the impact of the Higher Education Act of 1965 on research related to geothermal energy during Johnson's presidency.
  • The Higher Education Act of 1965 significantly bolstered research funding for universities, allowing them to explore innovative fields such as geothermal energy. This act not only facilitated financial resources for academic institutions but also encouraged interdisciplinary studies that integrated environmental science with engineering. As a result, it fostered a generation of researchers who contributed valuable knowledge and advancements in geothermal technology.
• Assess how Johnson's establishment of policies aimed at environmental protection influenced future legislation related to renewable energy.
  • Lyndon B. Johnson's establishment of policies that focused on environmental protection set a precedent for future legislation concerning renewable energy sources like geothermal power. His administration's approach promoted awareness of environmental issues and sustainability, influencing subsequent leaders to adopt similar stances on climate change and clean energy initiatives. This legacy paved the way for the creation of agencies like the EPA and legislation such as the Energy Policy Act, which aimed to enhance renewable resource development and ensure responsible environmental stewardship.

Related terms

Great Society: A set of domestic programs launched by Johnson aimed at eliminating poverty and racial injustice, which included initiatives that encouraged renewable energy research.

Energy Policy Act: Legislation aimed at promoting energy conservation and the development of alternative energy sources, including geothermal energy, which was influenced by Johnson's presidency.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): An agency established in 1970 to protect human health and the environment, which was a part of the environmental legacy stemming from policies initiated during Johnson's time in office.