Warren G. Harding

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Warren G Harding-Harris & Ewing.jpg Harding in 1920

Warren Gamaliel Harding (November 2, 1865 – August 2, 1923) was the 29th President of the United States, serving from 1921 until his death in 1923. A member of the Republican Party, he was one of the most popular presidents to that point. However, after his death, a number of scandals, including the Teapot Dome scandal, came to light, damaging his reputation.

Early Life and Education

Harding was born in Blooming Grove, Ohio, to George Tryon Harding and Phoebe Elizabeth Harding. He attended Ohio Central College and graduated in 1882. After college, he worked as a teacher and insurance salesman before purchasing the Marion Star, a struggling local newspaper, which he turned into a successful publication.

Political Career

Ohio State Senate

Harding began his political career in the Ohio State Senate, serving from 1900 to 1904. He was then elected as the 28th Lieutenant Governor of Ohio, serving from 1904 to 1906.

U.S. Senate

In 1914, Harding was elected to the United States Senate, where he served until his inauguration as president in 1921. During his time in the Senate, he was known for his affable personality and ability to get along with colleagues on both sides of the aisle.

Presidency (1921–1923)

Harding won the 1920 presidential election in a landslide, promising a "return to normalcy" after the upheaval of World War I and the Spanish flu pandemic. His administration is noted for its pro-business policies and efforts to reduce government intervention in the economy.

Domestic Policies

Harding's domestic policies focused on tax cuts, high tariffs, and limited immigration. He signed the Emergency Quota Act in 1921, which restricted immigration from certain countries.

Foreign Policies

In foreign affairs, Harding supported disarmament and international cooperation. He hosted the Washington Naval Conference in 1921–1922, which resulted in several treaties aimed at reducing naval armaments among the major powers.

Scandals

Harding's administration was marred by several scandals, the most infamous being the Teapot Dome scandal, where government officials were found to have accepted bribes in exchange for leasing federal oil reserves.

Death and Legacy

Harding died suddenly of a heart attack in San Francisco, California, on August 2, 1923. He was succeeded by his vice president, Calvin Coolidge. Harding's legacy is mixed; while he was popular during his lifetime, his administration's scandals have overshadowed his achievements.

Related Pages

• Calvin Coolidge
• Teapot Dome scandal
• Washington Naval Conference
• Emergency Quota Act
• Republican Party (United States)
• Presidency of Warren G. Harding