1888 Republican National Convention

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1888 Republican National Convention

The 1888 Republican National Convention was a significant political event in the history of the United States. It was held at the Exposition Hall in Chicago, Illinois, from June 19 to June 25, 1888. The convention was convened to select the Republican Party's candidates for President and Vice President for the 1888 United States presidential election.

Background

The political landscape leading up to the 1888 convention was marked by intense competition and significant issues such as tariff reform, civil service reform, and the regulation of interstate commerce. The incumbent President, Grover Cleveland, a Democrat, was seeking re-election, and the Republicans were determined to regain the presidency.

Candidates

Several prominent Republicans were considered potential candidates for the presidential nomination. The main contenders included:

• Benjamin Harrison, a former Senator from Indiana and the grandson of former President William Henry Harrison.
• John Sherman, a Senator from Ohio and the brother of William Tecumseh Sherman.
• Russell A. Alger, a former Governor of Michigan.
• Walter Q. Gresham, a former Secretary of the Treasury and Secretary of State.

Convention Proceedings

The convention was chaired by John B. Henderson, a former Senator from Missouri. The proceedings were marked by intense debates and multiple ballots. On the eighth ballot, Benjamin Harrison emerged as the nominee for President, securing the majority of the delegates' votes.

For the vice-presidential nomination, Levi P. Morton, a former Ambassador to France and a banker from New York, was selected.

Outcome

The ticket of Benjamin Harrison and Levi P. Morton went on to win the 1888 United States presidential election, defeating the incumbent President Grover Cleveland and his running mate, Allen G. Thurman. Harrison's victory was notable for his success in the Electoral College, despite losing the popular vote to Cleveland.

Legacy

The 1888 Republican National Convention is remembered for its role in shaping the political landscape of the late 19th century. The election of Benjamin Harrison led to significant policy changes, particularly in the areas of tariff reform and civil service reform.

Related Pages

• Republican Party (United States)
• 1888 United States presidential election
• Benjamin Harrison
• Levi P. Morton
• Grover Cleveland
• John Sherman (politician)
• Russell A. Alger
• Walter Q. Gresham