Ford, Gerald R.

Description

Autograph ID: 4834
Condition: Very good
Description: “(1913-2006) 38th President 1974-77, 40th VP 1973-74, 1st person appointed Vice President under the 25th Amendment. When he became President upon Richard Nixon’s resignation (Aug. 9, 1974), he became the only President neither elected President nor Vice President! He previously served some 25 years as Michigan US Rep, 8 also as GOP Minority Leader. As President, Ford signed the Helsinki Accords, marking a move toward détente with the USSR. With the conquest of South Vietnam by North Vietnam 9 months into his presidency, US involvement in Vietnam essentially ended. Domestically, he presided over what was then the worst economy since the Depression, with growing inflation and a recession. One of his more controversial acts was to grant a presidential pardon to Nixon for his role in the Watergate scandal. During his incumbency, foreign policy was characterized by increased role Congress began to play, and by a corresponding curb on powers of the President. In 1976, Ford narrowly defeated Ronald Reagan for the GOP nomination, but lost election to Jimmy Carter. He lived longer than any other President, dying at age 93 years and 165 days.

Uncommon ALS “Jerry Ford” written and signed in “hot pink” ink on 8 ½ x 6 ½ personal letterhead, (Rancho Mirage, Cal.), December 26 (1994), gilt presidential seal at top center, to friend Edward L. Barner, UMI, Los Angeles. The former President and Mrs. Ford thank Barner for his “thoughtfulness at Christmastime”, the whole family thanks him for his “delicious box of treats” and thanks him for “remembering us during this Holiday season.” He closes with the Ford Family’s hope he had a “wonderful Holiday – both Christmas and New Year.” With typed addressed envelope with printed franking signature, 1/9/95 date stamp.”
Type: Letter