Benjamin Harrison

JSHarrison

Benjamin Harrison Birth Site

Benjamin Harrison c1850

General Benjamin Harrison--"Come on boys!" - Battle of Resaca - May 13th to 16th 1864

General-Benjamin-Harrison-in-uniform,-1865

Benjamin Harrison (August 20, 1833 – March 13, 1901) was an American politician and lawyer who served as the 23rd President of the United States from 1889 to 1893. He was a grandson of the ninth president, William Henry Harrison, making him the only president to be the grandson of another president. Harrison was born into a prominent political family in North Bend, Ohio, and lived most of his life in Indiana. He was a member of the Republican Party.

Early Life and Education

Benjamin Harrison was born on August 20, 1833, in North Bend, Ohio, to John Scott Harrison and Elizabeth Ramsey Irwin. Harrison's early education was typical of the time, including both public schooling and private tutors. He later attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where he graduated in 1852. After college, he studied law in Cincinnati before moving to Indianapolis in 1854, where he began his legal career.

Military Service

During the American Civil War, Harrison served as a colonel in the 70th Indiana Infantry Regiment of the Union Army. He saw significant action and was eventually brevetted as a brigadier general for his leadership and bravery on the battlefield.

Political Career

Harrison's political career began in earnest after the Civil War. He served as a reporter for the Indiana Supreme Court and entered politics, serving in the United States Senate from 1881 to 1887. As a senator, Harrison was known for his advocacy of veterans' benefits, education funding, and tariffs to protect American industry.

In 1888, Harrison was nominated by the Republican Party for president, running against the incumbent, Grover Cleveland. In a closely contested election, Harrison won the presidency, largely due to his support in the crucial states of New York and Indiana.

Presidency (1889-1893)

Harrison's presidency was marked by significant legislation and events. He supported and signed the Sherman Antitrust Act, which was aimed at regulating monopolies, and the McKinley Tariff, which raised duties on imports to protect domestic industries. Harrison also admitted six new states to the Union, more than any other president except George Washington.

Harrison's foreign policy was notable for his emphasis on expanding American influence overseas. He pursued an aggressive policy in Latin America and sought to strengthen the U.S. Navy. However, his administration was also marked by the Wounded Knee Massacre, a tragic conflict between the U.S. Army and Lakota Sioux Indians.

Later Life and Legacy

After losing the 1892 election to Grover Cleveland, Harrison returned to Indianapolis, where he resumed his law practice and became involved in various civic activities. He also wrote and lectured on law, history, and politics until his death on March 13, 1901.

Harrison's legacy is mixed. He is often remembered for his foreign policy initiatives and for signing important domestic legislation. However, his administration is also criticized for its handling of civil rights and Native American policies.

See Also

• List of Presidents of the United States
• History of the United States (1865–1918)

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