Grover Cleveland

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GCleveland

Bernard Gilliam - Phryne before the Chicago Tribunal

Grover Cleveland (March 18, 1837 – June 24, 1908) was an American politician and lawyer who served as the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, making him the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms (1885–1889 and 1893–1897). Cleveland is known for his honesty, integrity, and commitment to the principles of classical liberalism. As a leader, he was known for his opposition to excessive government spending and corruption, making him a key figure in the Democratic Party during the late 19th century.

Early Life

Grover Cleveland was born in Caldwell, New Jersey, to Richard Falley Cleveland and Ann Neal Cleveland. He was the fifth of nine children. The Cleveland family moved to Fayetteville, New York, where Grover spent much of his childhood. Despite limited formal education, Cleveland was determined to succeed and taught himself law, passing the New York state bar exam in 1859.

Political Career

Cleveland's political career began in Buffalo, New York, where he served as assistant district attorney and later as sheriff of Erie County. His reputation as a reformer and opponent of corruption led to his election as Mayor of Buffalo in 1881, and shortly thereafter, as Governor of New York in 1882.

Presidency

Cleveland's first term as President was marked by his efforts to reform the civil service, reduce tariffs, and fight against the Pension Bill, which he saw as excessive. Despite his reforms, Cleveland was defeated in the 1888 presidential election by Benjamin Harrison. However, he made a successful comeback in the 1892 election, becoming the only president in American history to serve two non-consecutive terms.

During his second term, Cleveland faced the Panic of 1893, a severe economic depression. He dealt with the crisis by supporting the gold standard and opposing the free silver movement, which made him unpopular within his own party. Additionally, his administration was marked by the Pullman Strike of 1894, during which he sent federal troops to break the strike, further alienating labor groups and many within the Democratic Party.

Personal Life and Legacy

Cleveland married Frances Folsom in 1886, becoming the first and only president to marry in the White House. The couple had five children. After his presidency, Cleveland retired to Princeton, New Jersey, where he remained active in public affairs until his death in 1908.

Grover Cleveland's legacy is complex. He is remembered for his integrity, fiscal conservatism, and commitment to the principles of classical liberalism. However, his economic policies and handling of labor disputes have been criticized. Despite this, Cleveland is often ranked as an above-average president in historical rankings.

See Also

• List of Presidents of the United States
• Democratic Party (United States)
• Presidential Election of 1884
• Presidential Election of 1892

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