Clinton was only 54 when he left office on Jan. 20, 2001. Like Lyndon Johnson, he has been developing his presidential library and preparing his memoirs. Like Nixon, he has been working to restore his public image and create a role for himself as an elder statesman. He has also followed Carter's example and parlayed his interest in foreign affairs into work as an independent ambassador.

Many former presidents remained part of public life, usually as public speakers or writers. A few even returned to Washington. After his presidency John Quincy Adams served nine terms in Congress, where his outstanding oratory earned him the nickname "Old Man Eloquent." Andrew Johnson returned to the job as senator he had held before the presidency. Hoover served on the federal commissions that bore his name.

Taft made history when he was appointed to the Supreme Court, where he served from 1921 until his death in 1930. So rewarding was this turn of events that he later said, "I don't remember that I was ever President."