Herbert Hoover was the 31st President of the United States, serving from 1929 to 1933. Prior to his presidency, he was a successful engineer, businessman, and humanitarian, serving as the head of the American Relief Administration and leading efforts to provide food and aid to war-torn Europe. Hoover's presidency was marked by the onset of the Great Depression, which began just months after he took office. Despite his efforts to stabilize the economy, including the creation of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation and public works projects, Hoover's policies were largely ineffective in combating the economic downturn. Hoover also faced criticism for his response to the Bonus Army, a group of World War I veterans who marched on Washington, D.C. to demand early payment of their bonuses. Hoover ordered their removal by force, which resulted in violence and injury.