President Rutherford B. Hayes: Healing the Divided Nation
19th President of the United States
| Date of Birth : 4th October 1822 |
| Died : 17th January 1893 |
| Place of Birth : Delaware, Ohio, U.S. |
| Father : Rutherford Hayes |
| Mother : Sophia Birchard |
| Spouse/Partner : Lucy Ware Webb |
| Children : Birchard Austin, Webb Cook, Rutherford Platt, Joseph Thompson, George Crook, Fanny, Scott Russell, Manning Force |
| Alma Mater : Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio |
| Professions : Politician, Lawyer |
Career History
| Served As: 19th President of the United States Time Period: March 4, 1877 – March 4, 1881 Predecessor: Ulysses S. Grant Successor: James A. Garfield |
| Served As 29th Governor of Ohio Time Period: January 10, 1876– March 2, 1877 Predecessor: William Allen Successor: Thomas L. Young |
| Served As: 32nd Governor of Ohio Time Period: January 13, 1868– January 8, 1872 Predecessor: Jacob Dolson Cox Successor: Edward Follansbee Noyes |
| Served As: Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio's 2nd district Time Period: March 4, 1865 – July 20, 1867 Predecessor: Alexander Long Successor: Samuel Fenton Cary |
Overview
Rutherford Birchard Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, assumed office in 1877, marking the end of the tumultuous post-Civil War period known as Reconstruction. Born on October 4, 1822, in Delaware, Ohio, Hayes rose to prominence as a Union officer during the Civil War and later became a key figure in the political landscape of the late 19th century. His presidency is often remembered for the controversial circumstances of his election and his efforts to heal the wounds of a divided nation. This article by Academic Block explores the life, career, presidency and biography of Rutherford B Hayes, exploring the challenges he faced during Reconstruction and his legacy in American history.
Early Life of Rutherford B Hayes
Rutherford B. Hayes was born into a politically active family on October 4, 1822. His father, Rutherford Hayes, was a successful farmer and store owner, while his mother, Sophia Birchard Hayes, instilled in him a love for education. Young Hayes attended local schools and, in 1838, enrolled at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Graduating with top honors in 1842, he went on to attend Harvard Law School, earning his law degree in 1845.
Early Life and Birthplace of Rutherford B Hayes
Rutherford B. Hayes was born on October 4, 1822, in Delaware, Ohio, to Sophia and Rutherford Hayes. His father passed away before his birth, leaving his mother to raise him. Hayes was well-educated from an early age, attending local schools and later enrolling at Kenyon College. He graduated in 1842 and went on to study law at Harvard Law School. Hayes's early life was shaped by perseverance and a strong desire to succeed, qualities that would define his future political career.
B Hayes' Military and Political Career
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Civil War Contributions : Hayes demonstrated remarkable bravery during the American Civil War. He served as a major in the Union Army and quickly rose through the ranks, earning the title of brigadier general. His courage in battle, even after being wounded several times, cemented his reputation as a dedicated leader.
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Rise in Politics : After the war, Hayes entered politics. He served as a member of Congress (1865–1867) and later as Governor of Ohio (1868–1872, 1876–1877). His tenure as governor was marked by efforts to improve education and support veterans.
Post-War Political Career of Rutherford Birchard Hayes
After the Civil War, Hayes turned his attention to politics. He served as a U.S. Congressman from 1865 to 1867 and then as Governor of Ohio from 1868 to 1872. As governor, he pursued policies promoting education, prison reform, and civil service reform. His dedication to public service and his ability to bridge gaps between different factions within the Republican Party positioned him as a rising star in American politics.
Presidency of Rutherford B Hayes
Hayes became president under contentious circumstances. The Election of 1876 was one of the most disputed in U.S. history, with Hayes winning the presidency after a special commission awarded him 20 contested electoral votes.
Key Highlights of His Rutherford Birchard Hayes Presidency
The Election of 1876
The presidential election of 1876 was one of the most controversial and disputed elections in American history. Hayes ran as the Republican candidate against Democrat Samuel J. Tilden. The results were inconclusive, with Tilden winning the popular vote but neither candidate securing a majority in the electoral college. The outcome hinged on disputed electoral votes from four states: Florida, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Oregon.
Hayes-Tilden Compromise of 1877: Key Points
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Context of the Disputed Election : The Election of 1876 between Rutherford B. Hayes (Republican) and Samuel J. Tilden (Democrat) was highly contentious. Tilden won the popular vote, but Hayes was awarded the electoral votes from disputed states, leading to a political standoff.
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Electoral Commission : To resolve the dispute, Congress created an Electoral Commission, consisting of 15 members, including five members from the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Supreme Court. The commission ultimately voted in favor of Hayes.
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Compromise Terms : The Hayes-Tilden Compromise (also known as the Compromise of 1877) emerged as a deal to end the standoff:
- Hayes would become President.
- Federal troops would be withdrawn from the Southern states, effectively ending Reconstruction.
- Democrats would gain greater influence in Southern governance.
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Impact on Reconstruction : The compromise marked the end of Reconstruction and the federal government’s efforts to protect African American rights in the South. This withdrawal of troops led to the resurgence of white supremacy and the implementation of Jim Crow laws.
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Legacy : The Hayes-Tilden Compromise is seen as a pivotal moment in U.S. history, balancing political power between the North and South but also undermining the civil rights of African Americans in the South.
This compromise shaped the trajectory of post-Civil War America, with long-lasting consequences for racial relations and governance.
Rutherford B Hayes Accomplishments
Reconstruction Policies by President Hayes and the New South
Rutherford B. Hayes assumed the presidency on March 4, 1877, and immediately faced the daunting task of guiding the nation through the aftermath of the Civil War. President Hayes was committed to promoting reconciliation between the North and the South, and his policies reflected a desire to move away from the divisive issues that had characterized Reconstruction.
One of his first acts as president was to fulfill the promise made during the Compromise of 1877. Hayes withdrew federal troops from the Southern states, effectively ending the era of Reconstruction. This decision was met with mixed reactions, as it signaled the federal government's retreat from enforcing civil rights and protecting the rights of newly freed African Americans.
Hayes also sought to promote economic development in the South, encouraging investment in infrastructure and industry. His vision for the "New South" aimed at fostering economic growth and healing regional divisions. However, this approach did little to address the underlying racial tensions and social inequalities that persisted in the region.
Native American Policy by President Rutherford B Hayes
President Rutherford B Hayes also made notable contributions to Native American policy during his presidency. In 1880, he signed the Indian Appropriations Act, which provided funding for the education of Native American children. This act reflected Hayes' belief in the importance of education as a means of promoting assimilation and integration.
Hayes' administration continued the policy of concentrating Native American tribes onto reservations, a practice that had been established in previous decades. While he advocated for education and cultural assimilation, his policies often overlooked the rights and autonomy of Native American communities.
Works of Rutherford B Hayes
Legacy and Rutherford B Hayes Death Cause
Rutherford B. Hayes left a significant legacy in American history, particularly for his efforts in civil service reform and national reconciliation following the Civil War. His presidency marked the end of Reconstruction, and he championed merit-based government appointments, laying the foundation for the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act. Hayes also focused on healing regional divisions between the North and South, and his support for Native American education demonstrated his commitment to social progress. After leaving office, Hayes continued to be involved in education and public service, advocating for the rights of African Americans and working to improve the nation's infrastructure.
Hayes passed away on January 17, 1893, at the age of 70. The cause of his death was complications from a heart attack. His passing marked the end of an era in American politics, but his contributions to civil rights and governance continue to be remembered as pivotal moments in U.S. history.
Final Words
Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency occupies a unique place in American history. His tenure marked the end of Reconstruction and the beginning of a new era in which the nation grappled with the legacies of the Civil War. While his presidency faced challenges and controversies, Hayes' contributions to civil service reform and his efforts to promote national reconciliation continue to shape historical assessments of his legacy. Please provide your comments below, it will help us in improving this article. Thanks for reading!
This Article will answer your questions like:
Rutherford B. Hayes was the 19th president of the United States, serving from 1877 to 1881. His presidency is notable for ending Reconstruction and bringing federal troops out of the South. Hayes advocated for civil service reform and fought to stabilize the country after the Civil War. His leadership helped transition the nation from post-war reconstruction to an era of industrial expansion.
No, Rutherford B. Hayes was not assassinated. He served his term as president without incident. He died of natural causes on January 17, 1893, at the age of 70. His death occurred many years after his presidency, marking the end of an era in post-Civil War America.
Historians have varied opinions on Rutherford B. Hayes's presidency. While his presidency faced challenges, such as the contentious election of 1876, Hayes is often credited for bringing an end to Reconstruction and advocating for civil service reform. His leadership laid the groundwork for future reforms, although his moderate approach to political and social issues left him with a mixed legacy.
The Compromise of 1877, which resulted in Rutherford B. Hayes becoming president, effectively ended Reconstruction. Federal troops were withdrawn from the South, allowing southern states to regain control and enforce segregation. This decision led to the rise of the Jim Crow laws, cementing racial segregation for decades and delaying civil rights progress in the region.
The Compromise of 1877 ended Reconstruction by removing federal troops from the South, marking a shift in control back to southern white governments. This effectively allowed the southern states to dismantle Reconstruction-era reforms, which had supported African American rights and led to the resurgence of white-dominated political systems and discriminatory laws.
The outcome of the 1876 presidential election was decided by a special electoral commission. The commission, consisting of five members from the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Supreme Court, awarded disputed electoral votes to Rutherford B. Hayes, giving him the victory over Samuel J. Tilden. This decision was part of the Compromise of 1877, which led to Hayes becoming president in exchange for the withdrawal of federal troops from the South.
Rutherford B. Hayes is primarily known for his role in ending Reconstruction and promoting civil service reform. His decision to remove federal troops from the South in 1877, leading to the end of Reconstruction, significantly impacted the nation's social and political landscape. Hayes also championed reforms aimed at reducing corruption within the federal government.
Yes, Rutherford B. Hayes has a Presidential Library. The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri, houses his papers and historical documents. It serves as a research center and preserves the legacy of his presidency, providing insight into his leadership during a critical period of American history.
Rutherford B. Hayes served only one term as president, from 1877 to 1881. Although he was re-elected, Hayes pledged to not seek a second term, keeping his promise to retire after four years. His presidency was marked by efforts to heal the nation after the Civil War and advance civil service reforms.
Rutherford B. Hayes's key accomplishments include ending Reconstruction by withdrawing federal troops from the South, which significantly impacted southern politics. He also promoted civil service reform, advocating for merit-based government appointments, which laid the foundation for future reforms. Hayes supported the advancement of education, particularly for African Americans, and helped restore public confidence in the presidency after the disputed 1876 election.
The Compromise of 1877 was a pivotal agreement that resolved the contested 1876 presidential election. It led to Rutherford B. Hayes becoming president in exchange for the withdrawal of federal troops from the South, effectively ending Reconstruction. This compromise allowed southern states to regain control, contributing to the resurgence of white-dominated political systems and the enforcement of segregationist laws, which had a lasting impact on racial relations in the U.S.
The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums is located in Fremont, Ohio, the birthplace of the 19th president. The museum houses an extensive collection of Hayes's personal papers, presidential records, and historical artifacts. It provides insights into his life, presidency, and contributions to American history, serving as a major resource for those interested in his legacy.
Some notable books about Rutherford B. Hayes include "Rutherford B. Hayes: Warrior and President" by Ari Hoogenboom, which explores his life and leadership; "The Presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes" by H. L. Brown, which provides an in-depth analysis of his political career; and "Rutherford B. Hayes: A Life" by Jean H. Baker, offering a comprehensive biography of his personal and political journey through American history.
President Rutherford B. Hayes passed away on January 17, 1893, at the age of 70. After his presidency, he retired to his home in Fremont, Ohio, where he spent his final years advocating for social and political reforms. His death marked the end of his active involvement in politics, but his legacy continued to influence American governance.
During his presidency, Rutherford B. Hayes advocated for significant civil service reform, pushing for a merit-based system over the patronage system. He also supported the resumption of the gold standard, advocated for the rights of African Americans in the South, and endorsed educational reforms, particularly aimed at improving public education and supporting the rights of women and children in the workforce.
A famous quote from President Rutherford B. Hayes is: "He serves his party best who serves the country best." This reflects his commitment to public service and reform, as well as his belief in prioritizing national interests over party politics. Hayes's leadership was rooted in a desire to heal the nation after the Civil War and improve government integrity.
Rutherford B. Hayes served as the 19th President of the United States from March 4, 1877, to March 4, 1881. His presidency followed the tumultuous Reconstruction era, and his leadership focused on restoring the country’s stability, promoting civil service reforms, and dealing with the aftermath of the Civil War. He served only one term and did not seek re-election.
President Rutherford B. Hayes addressed the aftermath of the Civil War by ending Reconstruction and removing federal troops from the South, which allowed southern states to reassert control. However, Hayes also promoted civil rights reforms and attempted to protect African Americans from discrimination. His presidency focused on national reconciliation and reforming the civil service to reduce corruption, marking a shift towards healing a fractured nation.
Famous quotes by Rutherford B. Hayes
“He serves his party best who serves the country best.”
“He serves his party best who serves the country best.”
“Every expert was once a beginner.”
“The President of the United States should strive to be always mindful of the fact that he serves his party best who serves his country best.”
“When the people are too much attached to savage independence, to be governed at all, it is a very serious thing to govern them at all; and the difficulty is much increased, if they are at the same time attached to a savage equality of wealth and conditions.”
“He who has no opinion of his own, but depends upon the opinion and taste of others, is a slave.”
“He who ceases to be a student has never been a student.”
“No evil can result from its inhibition more pernicious than its toleration.”
“We all need to be reminded that the vital force in our country has never yet been shown in legislation or politics, but always through the channels of education and of religion.”
“Conscience is the authentic voice of God to you.”
Controversies related to Rutherford B. Hayes
Compromise of 1877: The most significant controversy of Hayes’s presidency was the Compromise of 1877, a political deal that resolved the disputed results of the 1876 presidential election. In exchange for Southern support for his presidency, Hayes agreed to withdraw federal troops from the Southern states, effectively ending Reconstruction. This compromise led to the abandonment of civil rights for African Americans in the South and allowed the implementation of discriminatory Jim Crow laws.
Disputed Election of 1876: The election of 1876 itself was highly contentious. Samuel J. Tilden, the Democratic candidate, won the popular vote, but the electoral votes from Florida, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Oregon were disputed. A special Electoral Commission was established to settle the matter, and it ultimately awarded the contested electoral votes to Hayes, securing his presidency. Many Democrats believed the election had been stolen, and the compromise that followed further fueled distrust in the political process.
End of Reconstruction: While the end of Reconstruction through the Compromise of 1877 was a political solution to a contested election, it led to significant consequences. The withdrawal of federal troops allowed Southern states to resume control, resulting in the erosion of civil rights gains for African Americans. The subsequent rise of segregation, voter suppression, and systemic discrimination in the South marked a dark chapter in American history.
Labor Strikes and Railroad Unrest: The late 19th century was marked by labor unrest, including the Great Railroad Strike of 1877. The strikes, sparked by wage cuts in the railroad industry, spread across the country. Hayes faced criticism for his response to the strikes, as he called in federal troops to suppress the unrest, leading to clashes with workers and significant tensions between labor and capital.
Civil Service Reform Opposition: While Hayes is celebrated for his support of civil service reform, his efforts faced opposition from within his own party. The “Stalwart” faction of the Republican Party, led by Senator Roscoe Conkling, opposed the idea of ending the spoils system, which led to internal party conflicts. The eventual passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act in 1883 was a victory for reformers but highlighted the resistance within the party.
Economic Challenges: Hayes faced economic challenges during his presidency, including the aftermath of the Panic of 1873. Dealing with economic depression and the resulting labor strikes tested the administration’s ability to manage the nation’s economic woes.
Academic References on Rutherford B. Hayes
Books:
- “Rutherford B. Hayes: Warrior and President” by Ari Hoogenboom (1995)
- “Rutherford B. Hayes: Statesman of Reunion” by Charles Richard Williams (1934)
- “Rutherford B. Hayes and His America” by Harry Barnard (1954)
- “Rutherford B. Hayes: One of the Good Colonels” by Hans L. Trefousse (2009)
- “Hayes of the Twenty-Third: The Civil War Volunteer Officer” by Henry J. Cookinham (1922)
- “The Election of 1876 and the End of Reconstruction” by Samuel Thomas (1972)
- “Rutherford B. Hayes: And His America” by James A. Rawley (2012)
Articles:
- “Rutherford B. Hayes: The Missing Diary” by Ari Hoogenboom (1987)
- “The Hayes-Tilden Electoral Commission: An Illustrated History” by Ari Hoogenboom (2003)
- “The Politics of the Road: Rutherford B. Hayes and the Early Years of Good Roads” by Bruce D. Bomberger (1987)
- “Rutherford B. Hayes and the Removal of the Troops” by Hans L. Trefousse (1958) – Mississippi Valley Historical Review