40 Facts About President William McKinley

Early Life and Education

William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, had a fascinating journey from his humble beginnings to the highest office in the land. Let's delve into some intriguing facts about his early life and education.

1. Born on January 29, 1843, in Niles, Ohio, McKinley was the seventh of nine children.
2. His father, William McKinley Sr., was an iron manufacturer, while his mother, Nancy Allison McKinley, was a homemaker.
3. McKinley attended Allegheny College in Pennsylvania but had to leave due to illness and financial difficulties.
4. He later enrolled at the Poland Seminary in Ohio, where he completed his education.
5. McKinley briefly worked as a teacher before the Civil War broke out.

Military Service

McKinley's military service during the Civil War played a significant role in shaping his character and future political career.

6. He enlisted in the Union Army in 1861 at the age of 18.
7. McKinley served in the 23rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, where he started as a private.
8. He was promoted to second lieutenant for his bravery at the Battle of Antietam.
9. By the end of the war, McKinley had risen to the rank of brevet major.
10. His commanding officer, Rutherford B. Hayes, who later became President, praised McKinley's leadership and courage.

Political Career

McKinley's political journey began at the local level and eventually led him to the presidency.

11. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1876, representing Ohio's 17th district.
12. McKinley served seven terms in Congress, focusing on economic issues and tariffs.
13. He became the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee in 1889.
14. McKinley was elected Governor of Ohio in 1891 and served two terms.
15. His successful tenure as governor bolstered his national reputation.

Presidential Campaign and Election

McKinley's path to the presidency was marked by a well-organized campaign and significant support from key figures.

16. He won the Republican nomination for President in 1896, defeating Thomas Reed and William Allison.
17. McKinley's campaign manager, Mark Hanna, played a crucial role in securing financial support and organizing the campaign.
18. He ran against Democrat William Jennings Bryan, who was known for his "Cross of Gold" speech.
19. McKinley's campaign focused on promoting the gold standard and economic stability.
20. He won the election with 51% of the popular vote and 271 electoral votes.

Domestic Policies

As President, McKinley implemented several key domestic policies that had a lasting impact on the nation.

21. He signed the Dingley Tariff Act in 1897, which raised tariffs to protect American industries.
22. McKinley supported the Gold Standard Act of 1900, which established gold as the sole standard for redeeming paper money.
23. He promoted economic growth through policies that favored business and industry.
24. McKinley's administration saw the beginning of the Progressive Era, with reforms aimed at addressing social and economic issues.
25. He advocated for civil rights and appointed African Americans to federal positions.

Foreign Policies and the Spanish-American War

McKinley's presidency is often remembered for its significant foreign policy decisions, particularly the Spanish-American War.

26. He initially sought to avoid conflict with Spain over Cuba but eventually asked Congress to declare war in 1898.
27. The war lasted only a few months, resulting in a decisive American victory.
28. The Treaty of Paris, signed in December 1898, ended the war and ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States.
29. McKinley's administration also annexed Hawaii in 1898, expanding American influence in the Pacific.
30. He supported the Open Door Policy, which aimed to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China.

Assassination and Legacy

McKinley's second term was tragically cut short by an assassin's bullet, but his legacy endures.

31. He was re-elected in 1900, defeating William Jennings Bryan once again.
32. McKinley's second inauguration took place on March 4, 1901.
33. On September 6, 1901, he was shot by anarchist Leon Czolgosz while attending the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York.
34. Despite initial hopes for recovery, McKinley succumbed to his injuries on September 14, 1901.
35. His death led to an outpouring of national grief and mourning.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his political and military achievements, McKinley had a rich personal life and diverse interests.

36. He married Ida Saxton in 1871, and the couple had two daughters, both of whom died in childhood.
37. McKinley was known for his devotion to his wife, who suffered from epilepsy and other health issues.
38. He enjoyed playing cards, particularly euchre, with friends and family.
39. McKinley was an avid reader, with a particular interest in history and literature.
40. He was a devout Methodist and regularly attended church services.

McKinley's Legacy in a Nutshell

William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, left a lasting impact on the nation. His presidency saw the Spanish-American War, which resulted in the U.S. gaining territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. McKinley also championed economic growth through protective tariffs and the Gold Standard Act, stabilizing the economy. Tragically, his life was cut short by an assassin's bullet in 1901, leading to Theodore Roosevelt's presidency. Despite his untimely death, McKinley's policies and leadership helped shape modern America. His dedication to the country and its prosperity remains a significant part of his legacy. From his humble beginnings in Ohio to his rise to the highest office, McKinley's story is one of resilience, determination, and service. His contributions continue to be remembered and studied, highlighting his role in American history.