Get a close-up look at life in the Obama White House and explore the moments that shaped President and Mrs. Obama, brought to life through captivating exhibits, unique artifacts, and hands-on interactions. Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, made history as the first African American elected to the office, serving two terms from 2009 to 2017. His presidency marked a significant turning point in American politics, characterized by a blend of hope, change, and complex challenges. As President Obama has said, the change we seek will take longer than one term or one presidency. Real change—big change—takes many years and requires each generation to embrace the obligations and opportunities that come with the title of Citizen. The biography for President Obama and past presidents is courtesy of the White House Historical Association. Barack Obama served as the 44th President of the United States. Obama was elected the first African-American president of the Harvard Law Review, prior to graduating magna cum laude in 1991. He returned to Chicago in 1992 and served as the Illinois Executive Director of PROJECT VOTE!. Barack Hussein Obama II[a] (born August 4, 1961) is an American politician who served as the 44th president of the United States from 2009 to 2017. A member of the Democratic Party, he was the first African American president. Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, broke barriers as the first African-American president and implemented significant healthcare reforms during his tenure.