Rutherford B. Hayes
Rutherford B. Hayes
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Rutherford Birchard Hayes was an American lawyer and politician who served as the 19th President of the United States from 1877 to 1881.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: October 4, 1822, in Delaware, Ohio
Died: January 17, 1893, in Fremont, Ohio
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, lawyer, politician
Early Life and Background
Rutherford B. Hayes was born on October 4, 1822, in Delaware, Ohio, to Rutherford Hayes Sr. and Sophia Birchard Hayes. He grew up on the family's farm, where he developed a strong work ethic and love for education. Hayes attended Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, graduating in 1842 at the top of his class. He then studied law at Harvard University, earning his degree in 1845.
Major Accomplishments
Hayes' career in politics began when he served as a major general in the Union Army during the Civil War. He saw action in several battles, including the Battle of South Mountain and the Battle of Antietam. After the war, Hayes returned to Ohio and entered politics, serving as a U.S. Representative from 1865 to 1867 and later as Governor of Ohio from 1868 to 1872.
In 1876, Hayes was elected President in a disputed election against Samuel J. Tilden. The election was contentious due to allegations of electoral irregularities in several Southern states. Despite the controversy, Hayes won the presidency with 185 electoral votes to Tilden's 184.
As President, Hayes focused on rebuilding the nation after the Civil War and establishing the Freedmen's Bureau to support former slaves. He also supported the creation of the Interstate Commerce Commission to regulate railroads and promote economic development.
Notable Works or Actions
Hayes' most notable achievement as President was his commitment to civil rights for African Americans. He worked tirelessly to ensure that the rights of freed slaves were protected, often facing opposition from Southern Democrats who sought to undermine Reconstruction efforts.
One notable action taken by Hayes was his decision to withdraw federal troops from the South, effectively ending military occupation and allowing states to govern themselves. While this move was seen as a concession to Southern politicians, it ultimately led to the establishment of the Ku Klux Klan and the resurgence of white supremacist ideology in the region.
Impact and Legacy
Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency marked a significant turning point in American history. His commitment to civil rights and economic development helped establish the foundation for the modern United States. While his legacy is complex, with both supporters and critics acknowledging his accomplishments and controversies, Hayes remains an important figure in American politics.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Hayes' quotes and writings often reflect his strong sense of morality and commitment to public service. His words offer insight into the challenges faced by America during the late 19th century and serve as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
As a leader who navigated some of the most tumultuous periods in American history, Hayes' quotes provide valuable lessons on leadership, perseverance, and the enduring power of democracy.
Quotes by Rutherford B. Hayes
Rutherford B. Hayes's insights on:
I am not liked as a President by the politicians in office, in the press, or in Congress. But I am content to abide the judgment the sober second thought of the people.
It is the desire of the good people of the whole country that sectionalism as a factor in our politics should disappear.
My wish for the American woman is that she may always be an elevating influence-man’s inspiration. Let him go forth to duty while she weaves the spell which makes home a paradise to which he may return, ever welcome, whether he is victor or vanquished.
In the great and deep qualities of mind, heart, and soul, there is no change. Homer and Solomon speak to the same nature in man that is reached by Shakespeare and Lincoln. but in the accidents, the surroundings, the change is vast. All things now are mobile – movable.
Disunion and civil war are at hand; and yet I fear disunion and war less than compromise. We can recover from them. The free States alone, if we must go on alone, will make a glorious nation.
Perhaps the happiest moment of my life was then, when I saw that our line didn’t break and that the enemy’s did.
We are in a period when old questions are settled and the new are not yet brought forward. Extreme party action, if continued in such a time, would ruin the party. Moderation is its only chance. The party out of power gains by all partisan conduct of those in power.
Unjust attacks on public men do them more good than unmerited praise. They are hurt less by undeserved censure than by undeserved commendation. Abuse helps; often praise hurts.