Rutherford Hayes: A Statesman of Compromise and Progress

Rutherford Birchard Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, is often remembered as a lesser-known president, overshadowed by the towering figures of Lincoln, Grant, and Garfield. However, Hayes' presidency was a pivotal moment in American history, marked by significant accomplishments and a steadfast commitment to the principles of democracy and the rule of law.

Rutherford B. Hayes (Presidents of the U.S.A.)

by Sandra Francis

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22177 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

Early Life and Career

Hayes was born in Delaware, Ohio, in 1822. His father, Rutherford Hayes, Sr., was a successful lawyer and politician who instilled in his son a strong sense of civic duty. Hayes attended Kenyon College and Harvard Law School, and after graduating, he established a successful law practice in Cincinnati.

At the outbreak of the Civil War, Hayes enlisted in the Union Army and rose to the rank of brevet major general. He fought bravely in some of the war's most important battles, including the Battle of Antietam and the Battle of the Wilderness.

After the war, Hayes returned to Cincinnati and resumed his law practice. He also entered politics, serving in the Ohio State Senate and as Governor of Ohio.

Election of 1876

In 1876, Hayes was nominated as the Republican candidate for President. The election was one of the most hotly contested in American history and resulted in a disputed outcome. The popular vote was extremely close, and the electoral vote was even closer.

The election was ultimately decided by a special electoral commission appointed by Congress. The commission voted 8-7 in favor of Hayes, who was declared the winner. The result was controversial and led to widespread accusations of fraud and corruption.

Compromise of 1877

Hayes' presidency began under a cloud of controversy and division. The Compromise of 1877, which resolved the disputed election, was a crucial turning point in his presidency.

Under the terms of the compromise, Hayes agreed to withdraw federal troops from the South, effectively ending Reconstruction. In return, Southern Democrats agreed to recognize Hayes' presidency and support his policies.

The Compromise of 1877 was a controversial agreement that some historians argue led to the disenfranchisement of African Americans in the South. However, it also helped to restore peace and stability to the country after the divisive election of 1876.

Domestic Policy

Hayes' domestic agenda focused on economic recovery and civil rights. He signed the Specie Payment Resumption Act, which returned the country to the gold standard, and he helped to establish the Department of Justice.

Hayes was also a strong advocate for civil rights. He supported the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1875, which prohibited discrimination in public accommodations.

Foreign Policy

In foreign policy, Hayes focused on improving relations with foreign countries. He negotiated the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Spanish-American War, and he also helped to establish the Pan-American Union.

Legacy

Rutherford Hayes left office in 1881 with a mixed legacy. He had been a successful wartime general, a skilled politician, and a statesman who had guided the country through a difficult period. However, his presidency was also marred by the Compromise of 1877 and the ongoing issue of racial inequality.

In recent years, historians have come to appreciate Hayes' accomplishments more fully. He is now recognized as a man of principle and a leader who navigated a tumultuous era in American history with courage and conviction.

Rutherford Hayes was a complex and fascinating figure who played a pivotal role in American history. His presidency was a time of great change and controversy, but Hayes' commitment to democracy and the rule of law helped to steer the country towards a more stable and prosperous future.

Buy the book to learn more about Rutherford Hayes and his remarkable presidency

Rutherford B. Hayes (Presidents of the U.S.A.)

by Sandra Francis

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22177 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE