Presidency of Benjamin Harrison

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The Presidency of Benjamin Harrison began on March 4, 1889, when Benjamin Harrison was inaugurated as the 23rd President of the United States, and ended on March 4, 1893. Harrison, a member of the Republican Party, was elected president in 1888, defeating the incumbent president, Grover Cleveland, in the 1888 election. Harrison's presidency is noted for its significant legislative accomplishments and foreign policy initiatives.

Domestic Policy

Harrison's administration is known for its active legislative agenda. One of the most notable pieces of legislation passed during his presidency was the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890, which aimed to curb the power of large business monopolies. Another significant act was the McKinley Tariff, which raised tariffs to protect domestic industries from foreign competition.

Harrison also supported the Dependent and Disability Pension Act, which provided pensions to Civil War veterans and their families. This act significantly increased federal spending and contributed to the Billion-Dollar Congress, a term used to describe the 51st United States Congress due to its unprecedented level of spending.

Foreign Policy

In terms of foreign policy, Harrison's administration was marked by a proactive approach. The Pan-American Conference of 1889-1890, held in Washington, D.C., aimed to improve relations and trade between the United States and Latin American countries. Harrison also supported the construction of a modern navy, which laid the groundwork for the United States' emergence as a global naval power.

Harrison's administration negotiated several treaties, including the Bering Sea Arbitration with Great Britain, which resolved disputes over seal hunting rights in the Bering Sea. Additionally, Harrison's support for the annexation of Hawaii set the stage for its eventual annexation in 1898.

Civil Rights

Harrison was a strong advocate for civil rights and voting rights for African Americans. He supported the Federal Elections Bill of 1890, also known as the Lodge Bill, which aimed to protect the voting rights of African Americans in the South. However, the bill faced strong opposition and ultimately failed to pass in the Senate.

Economic Policy

Harrison's economic policies were characterized by high tariffs and increased federal spending. The McKinley Tariff of 1890 raised tariffs to historically high levels, which protected American industries but also led to higher prices for consumers. The increased federal spending during Harrison's presidency contributed to a budget surplus, but it also led to criticism and concerns about fiscal responsibility.

Legacy

Harrison's presidency is often overshadowed by the presidencies of his predecessor, Grover Cleveland, and his successor, Grover Cleveland, who served non-consecutive terms. However, Harrison's administration made significant contributions to the legislative and foreign policy landscape of the United States. His support for civil rights and a modern navy had lasting impacts on the nation's development.

Related Pages

• Benjamin Harrison
• Grover Cleveland
• Sherman Antitrust Act
• McKinley Tariff
• Billion-Dollar Congress
• Federal Elections Bill of 1890
• Pan-American Conference
• Bering Sea Arbitration
• Annexation of Hawaii

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