Rutherford Hayes: A Forgotten President of Transformation

Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, is often overlooked in presidential histories, overshadowed by the more well-known figures of Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant. However, Hayes' presidency was a pivotal period in American history, marked by significant transformations and challenges. This article aims to shed light on Hayes' remarkable life and legacy, exploring his transformative leadership during a turbulent era.

Rutherford Birchard Hayes was born on October 4, 1822, in Delaware, Ohio. He graduated from Kenyon College in 1842 and went on to study law at Harvard Law School. After practicing law for several years, Hayes entered politics, serving in the Ohio House of Representatives from 1858 to 1861.

With the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, Hayes joined the Union Army as a major in the 23rd Ohio Infantry. He fought with distinction in several key battles, including the Battle of South Mountain and the Battle of Antietam. Hayes rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a brevet major general in 1865.

Rutherford B. Hayes (Presidents of the U.S.A.)

by Sandra Francis

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22177 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

After the war, Hayes returned to Ohio and resumed his political career. He served as Governor of Ohio from 1868 to 1872, during which time he implemented significant reforms, including the establishment of the Ohio State University.

In 1876, Hayes was nominated by the Republican Party as their candidate for president. The election was one of the most controversial in American history, marked by widespread voter fraud and violence. After a lengthy electoral dispute, Hayes was declared the winner by a single electoral vote.

Hayes' presidency was characterized by a multifaceted agenda of reforms and reconciliation. He sought to heal the nation's wounds after the Civil War, promote economic growth, and ensure the rights of all citizens, regardless of race or gender.

Reconstruction and Reconciliation

Hayes was committed to completing the process of Reconstruction, which aimed to rebuild the South and restore the rights of African Americans. He appointed several African Americans to positions in his administration and supported the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1875, which outlawed racial discrimination in public accommodations.

However, Hayes also faced opposition from those who favored a more lenient approach to Reconstruction. He negotiated the Compromise of 1877, which ended federal troops' presence in the South and led to the withdrawal of Republicans from the region. This compromise has been criticized by some historians for abandoning African Americans to the mercy of white supremacists.

Economic Growth and Currency Reform

Hayes oversaw a period of economic growth and prosperity during his presidency. He signed legislation that authorized the resumption of specie payments, tying the value of the dollar to gold. This measure helped stabilize the economy and restore confidence in the financial system.

Political Reform and Civil Service

Hayes was a strong advocate for political reform. He implemented measures to reduce corruption and ensure fair elections. He also championed civil service reform, believing that government positions should be based on merit and not political patronage.

Rutherford B. Hayes left office in 1881 with a mixed legacy. He had made significant progress in promoting economic growth, political reform, and reconciliation. However, his compromises on Reconstruction left a lasting impact on the lives of African Americans in the South.

Despite his flaws, Hayes deserves recognition as a transformative president who navigated a complex and turbulent era in American history. His reforms laid the foundation for future progress and helped shape the nation's political and economic landscape.

Over time, Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency has been subjected to revisionist scholarship. While his compromises on Reconstruction continue to be debated, historians have come to appreciate his achievements in other areas, such as economic growth, currency reform, and political reform.

Hayes was a man of integrity, courage, and determination. He faced daunting challenges and made difficult decisions during his time in office. His legacy as a transformative president is one that deserves to be remembered and celebrated.

Rutherford B. Hayes (Presidents of the U.S.A.)

by Sandra Francis

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22177 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE