Reply #15: Those seem to be exceptions

[book_worm]

Johnson retired to his ranch and brooded, Nixon spent all his years trying to rehabilitate himself by writing books, Ford spent his time on golf courses and board rooms, Reagan spent his time giving speeches for high fees until Alzheimers caught up with him, Bush I--again spending much of his time giving speeches and in board rooms and jumping from planes on his birthday. Truman pretty much retired to Independence, Coolidge did as little as an ex-pres as he did as president. Wilson was too ill to do anything of substance after his presidency.

But you left off your list Taft who made a better Chief Justice than President because that is what he always wanted to be.

So you are right there are examples of people who did accomplish great things after the presidency, but in the modern era I think Carter is the only true example. Clinton is trying.