The Clintons are one of the most well-known political families in modern American history, yet many aspects of their personal lives are hidden from the spotlight. From Bill Clinto’s musical talents to Hillary Clinton’s surprising Republican roots, their personal stories offer a deeper understanding of their true personas.
These lesser-known facts provide a telling glimpse into the experiences that shaped their careers.
Whether you’re familiar with their political achievements or not, here are the things you probably didn’t know about the Clintons.
Bill Clinton’s Musical Talent
Bill Clinton is an accomplished saxophonist, having played since his youth. His love for music was evident during his 1992 presidential campaign when he famously performed “Heartbreak Hotel” on The Arsenio Hall Show, showcasing a lighter side of his personality. Clinton even considered pursuing a career in music before turning to law and politics.
Hillary Clinton’s Early Republican Roots
Before becoming a Democrat, Hillary Clinton was a staunch Republican during her teenage years. She even campaigned for Barry Goldwater in the 1964 presidential election. It wasn’t until she attended Wellesley College and later Yale Law School that her political views shifted towards the Democratic Party.
Chelsea Clinton’s Secret Service Codename
As the daughter of a sitting president, Chelsea Clinton was assigned the Secret Service codename “Energy” during her time in the White House. This codename reflected her youthful spirit and active lifestyle. The Secret Service uses codenames for all protectees to ensure clear and concise communication.
Bill Clinton Was the First Baby Boomer President
Elected in 1992, Bill Clinton was the first president born after World War II, representing the Baby Boomer generation. His presidency marked a generational shift in American politics, bringing a younger, more dynamic approach to the White House. This distinction also symbolized the beginning of a new era in U.S. leadership.
Hillary Clinton Is a Grammy Winner
In 1997, Hillary Clinton won a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for her book It Takes a Village. The book focuses on the impact of society on child development and became a bestseller. Her Grammy win showcased her ability to connect with a broad audience beyond the political sphere.
The Clintons’ Unusual Honeymoon
Instead of a traditional honeymoon, Bill and Hillary Clinton embarked on a campaign trip for Bill’s congressional race shortly after their wedding in 1975. The couple spent their honeymoon in a car, traveling across Arkansas to meet with voters. This unconventional start to their marriage reflected their deep commitment to public service.
Bill Clinton Is a Rhodes Scholar
Bill Clinton was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship to study at the University of Oxford in 1968, one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world. While at Oxford, he studied philosophy, politics, and economics, although he did not complete a degree. This experience broadened his global perspective and influenced his approach to leadership.
Hillary Clinton Tried to Join the Marines
In 1975, Hillary Clinton attempted to join the United States Marine Corps but was turned away due to her age and gender. This little-known fact highlights her early interest in public service and her determination to break barriers. Although she didn’t join the military, her experience speaks to her lifelong commitment to serving her country.
The Clintons Have Only One Child
Unlike many political families with multiple children, Bill and Hillary Clinton have one daughter, Chelsea, born in 1980. Chelsea grew up in the public eye, spending her formative years in the White House. Despite the intense media scrutiny, Chelsea has built a successful career in her own right, working in journalism and global health.
Hillary Clinton’s Legal Career
Before entering politics, Hillary Clinton was a successful lawyer, becoming the first female partner at the Rose Law Firm in Little Rock, Arkansas. Her legal career included advocating for children’s rights and working on major cases that shaped her understanding of the law. This experience laid the foundation for her later work in public policy.
Bill Clinton’s Near Miss with Military Service
Bill Clinton narrowly avoided being drafted into the Vietnam War due to his participation in the ROTC program at the University of Arkansas. However, he chose not to join ROTC, instead enrolling at Oxford, which led to controversy during his presidential campaign. His draft deferment became a point of contention, but it also influenced his views on war and military service.
The Clintons’ Connection to Nelson Mandela
Bill and Hillary Clinton forged a close relationship with Nelson Mandela, the former president of South Africa. Mandela even visited the Clintons in the White House during his first trip to the U.S. after his release from prison. The Clintons have often spoken of Mandela’s influence on their views regarding justice and equality.
Hillary Clinton’s Historic Senate Run
In 2000, Hillary Clinton became the first First Lady to win elected office when she was elected as a U.S. Senator from New York. Her victory was historic, as she transitioned from a supportive role in the White House to an independent political leader. Her time in the Senate solidified her reputation as a formidable politician in her own right.
Bill Clinton’s Post-Presidency Work
After leaving the White House, Bill Clinton focused on global humanitarian efforts through the Clinton Foundation. The foundation has tackled issues such as global health, economic development, and climate change. His post-presidency work has garnered international acclaim, showing his continued commitment to public service.
Hillary Clinton’s “Reset Button” Incident
As Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton famously presented Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov with a “reset button” to symbolize a fresh start in U.S.-Russia relations. However, the button’s label was mistranslated to “overcharged” in Russian, leading to an awkward diplomatic moment. Despite the error, the gesture highlighted her efforts to improve international relations.
Bill Clinton Is a Vegan
In recent years, Bill Clinton has adopted a vegan diet after undergoing heart surgery in 2004. He credits his plant-based diet with improving his health and preventing further heart issues. This lifestyle change reflects his ongoing focus on personal health and wellness in his post-presidency years.
Hillary Clinton Was a Child Advocate
Before becoming First Lady, Hillary Clinton was deeply involved in advocacy for children’s rights. She served as the chair of the Legal Services Corporation and co-founded the Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families. Her work in this area influenced many of her policies during her time in the White House and beyond.
The Clintons’ Foundation Raised Billions
The Clinton Foundation, founded in 1997, has raised billions of dollars for global initiatives focusing on health, education, and economic development. The foundation’s work has reached over 180 countries, addressing issues such as HIV/AIDS, climate change, and women’s rights. Despite some controversies, the foundation has made a significant impact on global humanitarian efforts.
Bill Clinton’s Love for Fast Food
Bill Clinton’s love for fast food was well-known during his presidency, with frequent visits to McDonald’s and other fast-food chains. His diet became a running joke in the media, often referenced in political cartoons and comedy shows. However, after his heart surgery, Clinton drastically changed his eating habits, embracing a healthier lifestyle.
Hillary Clinton’s Role in Healthcare Reform
In the early 1990s, Hillary Clinton spearheaded a major effort to reform the U.S. healthcare system, known as the Clinton healthcare plan. Although the plan ultimately failed to pass Congress, it was a significant early attempt to address healthcare access and affordability. Her work on this issue laid the groundwork for later reforms, including the Affordable Care Act.
Bill Clinton’s Impeachment
Bill Clinton became the second U.S. president to be impeached after the House of Representatives charged him with perjury and obstruction of justice in 1998. The charges stemmed from his extramarital affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky and his subsequent efforts to cover it up. Although the Senate acquitted him, the impeachment left a lasting mark on his presidency.
Hillary Clinton’s Endurance in Politics
Hillary Clinton’s resilience in politics is evident in her ability to bounce back from setbacks, including her 2008 and 2016 presidential campaign losses. Despite these defeats, she has continued to be an influential figure in American politics, advocating for women’s rights, democracy, and social justice. Her endurance has made her one of the most prominent and enduring figures in modern political history.
