Presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes

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Rutherford Birchard Hayes, head-and-shoulders portrait, facing slightly left LCCN2004671902 (cropped).jpg

The presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes began on March 4, 1877, when he was inaugurated as the 19th President of the United States, and ended on March 4, 1881. Hayes, a member of the Republican Party, served as president after winning the highly contested 1876 United States presidential election.

Election of 1876

The 1876 United States presidential election was one of the most contentious and controversial elections in American history. Hayes faced off against Samuel J. Tilden, the Democratic candidate. The election results were disputed in several states, leading to the creation of the Electoral Commission to resolve the impasse. The commission ultimately awarded the disputed electoral votes to Hayes, securing his victory by a single electoral vote.

Domestic Policy

Hayes's domestic policy was marked by his efforts to reconcile the divisions left over from the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. He ended the federal occupation of the South by withdrawing federal troops, a move that effectively ended the Reconstruction era. This decision was part of the Compromise of 1877, which resolved the disputed election.

Civil Service Reform

Hayes was a strong advocate for civil service reform. He sought to end the spoils system and implement a merit-based system for federal employment. Although he faced significant opposition from members of his own party, Hayes took steps to reform the civil service, including issuing an executive order that forbade federal officeholders from being required to make campaign contributions or otherwise participate in party politics.

Economic Policy

Hayes's economic policy focused on maintaining the gold standard and reducing the national debt. He vetoed the Bland-Allison Act, which would have required the federal government to purchase and coin silver, but his veto was overridden by Congress.

Foreign Policy

Hayes's foreign policy was relatively quiet, focusing on maintaining peace and stability. He dealt with issues such as the Burlingame Treaty with China, which regulated Chinese immigration, and the War of the Pacific in South America, where he offered mediation.

Legacy

Hayes's presidency is often remembered for his efforts to reform the civil service and his role in ending Reconstruction. His decision to withdraw federal troops from the South had long-lasting implications for civil rights and race relations in the United States.

Related Pages

• Rutherford B. Hayes
• 1876 United States presidential election
• Compromise of 1877
• Reconstruction era
• Civil service reform in the United States
• Bland-Allison Act
• Burlingame Treaty

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