What is Barack Obama's net worth and salary?
Barack Obama is a well-known American politician with a net worth of around $70 million, which includes his wife Michelle's assets. The Obamas weren't always wealthy; they hit millionaire status around 2005, mainly due to book royalties as Barack gained fame in politics. He served as a Senator from Illinois and made history as the 44th President of the United States, being the first African American to hold that office.
Before diving into politics, Obama earned his degree from Harvard Law School, where he made history as the first African American president of the Harvard Law Review. After that, he worked as a civil rights lawyer and taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago Law School.
His political journey kicked off in the Illinois State Senate, where he served from 1997 to 2004. During that time, he focused on healthcare, education, and ethics reform. His standout keynote speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention really put him on the map, paving the way for his election to the U.S. Senate later that same year.
Obama kept his eye on key issues like government transparency, nuclear non-proliferation, and veterans' care while serving in the U.S. Senate. His dynamic speaking style and push for bipartisan efforts struck a chord with many Americans, setting the stage for his run for president.
His 2008 presidential campaign was a game-changer, making great use of social media and grassroots efforts in fresh ways. Winning the election, he became the first African American President of the United States. Throughout his time in office, Obama dealt with major hurdles, including the economic downturn and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
On the home front, he made healthcare reform a top priority, leading to the Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare. His administration also made progress in renewable energy, financial regulations, and LGBTQ rights.
In terms of foreign policy, Obama aimed to restore America's reputation globally, wrapped up the Iraq War, and authorized the mission that resulted in Osama bin Laden's death. His administration was also instrumental in international agreements like the Iran Nuclear Deal and the Paris Climate Agreement.
Since stepping away from the White House, Obama has kept himself busy in the public sphere, concentrating on projects tied to education, civic involvement, and nurturing future leaders through the Obama Foundation. He’s also written a few books, with his presidential memoir, "A Promised Land," being one of the highlights.