40 Facts About President William Henry Harrison

Early Life and Education

William Henry Harrison's early years shaped his future. Born into a prominent family, he had access to education and opportunities that set him on the path to the presidency.

1. Born on February 9, 1773, in Charles City County, Virginia, Harrison was the youngest of seven children.
2. His father, Benjamin Harrison V, was a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
3. Harrison attended Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia but left before graduating.
4. He later studied medicine in Philadelphia under Dr. Benjamin Rush, a renowned physician and another signer of the Declaration of Independence.
5. Despite his medical studies, Harrison chose a military career over becoming a doctor.

Military Career

Harrison's military career was distinguished and pivotal in his rise to national prominence. His leadership in various battles earned him a reputation as a war hero.

6. In 1791, Harrison joined the U.S. Army as an ensign in the First Infantry of the Regular Army.
7. He served as an aide-de-camp to General "Mad Anthony" Wayne during the Northwest Indian War.
8. Harrison played a key role in the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794, which led to the Treaty of Greenville and opened much of present-day Ohio to American settlers.
9. He was promoted to captain in 1795 and later became the commander of Fort Washington in Cincinnati.
10. Harrison resigned from the army in 1798 to become the Secretary of the Northwest Territory.

Political Career

Harrison's political career spanned various roles, from territorial governor to U.S. senator. His political acumen and leadership skills were evident throughout his career.

11. In 1800, Harrison was appointed the first governor of the Indiana Territory by President John Adams.
12. As governor, he negotiated numerous treaties with Native American tribes, acquiring millions of acres of land for the United States.
13. Harrison led U.S. forces against Tecumseh's confederation at the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811, earning the nickname "Old Tippecanoe."
14. He served as a U.S. Representative from Ohio from 1816 to 1819.
15. Harrison was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1824, representing Ohio until 1828.

Presidential Campaign

Harrison's presidential campaign was notable for its innovative strategies and widespread appeal. His image as a war hero and man of the people resonated with voters.

16. Harrison first ran for president in 1836 but lost to Martin Van Buren.
17. In the 1840 election, Harrison's campaign used the slogan "Tippecanoe and Tyler Too," referring to his military victory and running mate, John Tyler.
18. His campaign popularized the use of log cabins and hard cider as symbols of his humble origins and connection to the common man.
19. Harrison's campaign rallies were large and festive, featuring parades, songs, and speeches.
20. He won the 1840 election with a significant margin in the Electoral College, defeating incumbent Martin Van Buren.

Presidency and Legacy

Harrison's presidency was tragically short, but his legacy endures. His brief time in office and untimely death had lasting impacts on the nation.

21. Harrison was inaugurated as the 9th President of the United States on March 4, 1841.
22. He delivered the longest inaugural address in U.S. history, lasting nearly two hours, in cold and wet weather.
23. Harrison caught a cold shortly after his inauguration, which developed into pneumonia.
24. He died on April 4, 1841, just 31 days into his term, making his presidency the shortest in U.S. history.
25. Harrison was the first U.S. president to die in office, leading to questions about presidential succession.

Personal Life

Harrison's personal life was marked by his large family and deep connections to American history. His descendants continued his legacy in various ways.

26. Harrison married Anna Tuthill Symmes on November 25, 1795.
27. The couple had ten children, though only six survived to adulthood.
28. His grandson, Benjamin Harrison, later became the 23rd President of the United States.
29. Harrison was known for his modesty and frugality, often living simply despite his prominent status.
30. He was a devout Episcopalian and regularly attended church services.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond his political and military achievements, Harrison's life was filled with intriguing details that add depth to his story.

31. Harrison was the last U.S. president born as a British subject before American independence.
32. He was the first president to have his photograph taken while in office, though the photo has since been lost.
33. Harrison's campaign was the first to use modern electioneering techniques, such as slogans and mass rallies.
34. He was an advocate for education and supported the establishment of schools and libraries in the Indiana Territory.
35. Harrison's home, Grouseland, in Vincennes, Indiana, is now a National Historic Landmark.

Impact on American History

Harrison's impact on American history extends beyond his brief presidency. His actions and legacy influenced the nation's development in various ways.

36. Harrison's military victories helped secure American expansion into the Northwest Territory.
37. His presidency highlighted the need for a clear line of presidential succession, leading to the 25th Amendment.
38. Harrison's use of campaign strategies set a precedent for future presidential elections.
39. His family's continued involvement in politics underscored the lasting influence of his legacy.
40. Harrison's life and career exemplify the complexities and challenges of early American leadership.

Harrison's Legacy in a Nutshell

William Henry Harrison's brief presidency left a lasting mark on American history. Known for his military achievements, particularly at the Battle of Tippecanoe, he earned the nickname "Old Tippecanoe." His campaign slogan, "Tippecanoe and Tyler Too," became one of the most memorable in U.S. political history. Despite serving only 32 days as president, his legacy endures through his contributions to the nation's early development and his family's continued political influence. His grandson, Benjamin Harrison, later became the 23rd president, cementing the Harrison family's place in American politics. Harrison's life reminds us of the unpredictable nature of history and the impact one individual can have, even in a short time. His story continues to fascinate historians and enthusiasts alike, ensuring his place in the annals of American history.