04 October - Rutherford Birchard Hayes birth anniversary

 

Rutherford Birchard Hayes, born on 04 October 1822, in Delaware, Ohio, was an American politician and the 19th President of the United States. He served as president from 1877 to 1881. Here are some key points about Rutherford B. Hayes:

1. Military Service: Hayes served in the Union Army during the American Civil War, rising to the rank of major general. He was wounded multiple times, earning a reputation for bravery.

2. Governor of Ohio: Before his presidency, Hayes served as the Governor of Ohio from 1868 to 1872 and again from 1876 to 1877.

3. Controversial Election of 1876: The 1876 presidential election between Hayes, a Republican, and Samuel J. Tilden, a Democrat, was one of the most disputed in U.S. history. The outcome hinged on contested electoral votes, and a special electoral commission was established to resolve the dispute. The Compromise of 1877, which included the withdrawal of federal troops from the South, ultimately secured Hayes' presidency.

4. End of Reconstruction: The end of Hayes' presidency marked the conclusion of the Reconstruction era in the Southern United States. As part of the Compromise of 1877, federal troops were withdrawn from the South, effectively ending the Reconstruction policies.

5. Civil Service Reform: Hayes advocated for civil service reform during his presidency, promoting merit-based appointments rather than the traditional spoils system.

6. One-Term Presidency: As part of a pledge made during the contentious election, Hayes chose not to seek re-election. He served only one term, from 1877 to 1881.

7. Retirement: After leaving the presidency, Hayes retired to his home, Spiegel Grove, in Fremont, Ohio. He remained active in various philanthropic and educational pursuits.

8. Death: Rutherford B. Hayes passed away on 17 January 1893, at the age of 70, at his home in Fremont.

Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency is notable for its contentious beginning and for his efforts to promote civil service reform. The compromise that secured his presidency marked the end of Reconstruction and had lasting implications for the South.