Mark Hanna

Mark_Hanna's_birthplace_in_New_Lisbon,_OH

Mark_Hanna_as_boy

Hanna_1877

Foraker_as_governor

McKinley_1892_card

Hanna_1896

Bryan_Wellsville

Mark Hanna

Marcus Alonzo Hanna (September 24, 1837 – February 15, 1904) was an American businessman and Republican politician who served as a United States Senator from Ohio and as the chairman of the Republican National Committee. He was a key political figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for his role in the election of William McKinley as President of the United States.

Early Life and Career

Mark Hanna was born in Lisbon, Ohio, and later moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he attended Western Reserve College. After leaving college, he joined his father's wholesale grocery business. Hanna later expanded his business interests into the coal and iron industries, becoming a prominent industrialist.

Political Career

Hanna's political career began with his involvement in local politics in Cleveland. He was a strong supporter of the Republican Party and became a key advisor and fundraiser for William McKinley. Hanna's influence was instrumental in McKinley's successful campaigns for governor of Ohio and later for President of the United States.

1896 Presidential Election

In the 1896 presidential election, Hanna played a crucial role in securing the Republican nomination for McKinley and orchestrating a successful campaign against William Jennings Bryan. Hanna's innovative campaign strategies, including extensive use of advertising and fundraising, set new standards for political campaigns in the United States.

United States Senator

In 1897, Hanna was appointed to the United States Senate to fill a vacancy. He was later elected to the Senate in his own right and served until his death in 1904. As a senator, Hanna was a strong advocate for business interests and played a significant role in shaping Republican policies during his tenure.

Legacy

Mark Hanna is remembered as a pioneering political strategist and a powerful figure in the Republican Party. His methods and strategies in political campaigning have had a lasting impact on American politics.

Related Pages

• William McKinley
• Republican National Committee
• United States Senate
• Republican Party (United States)
• 1896 United States presidential election