Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, is often remembered for his role in one of the most controversial elections in American history and for his commitment to civil service reform.
However, there is much more to this intriguing figure than his time in office.
From his early life and military service to his post-presidential endeavors and lesser-known achievements, Hayes’s story is rich with interesting facts that reveal the complexities of his character and contributions.
In this article, we will explore some captivating aspects of Hayes’s life, including his unique approach to leadership, his dedication to education and social issues, and the surprising hobbies that shaped his personal life.
With that said let’s have a look at some interesting facts about Rutherford B. Hayes;
1. Hayes was born on October 4, 1822, in Delaware, Ohio.
2. He graduated as valedictorian from Kenyon College in 1842.
3. Hayes earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1845.
4. He served as a major general in the Union Army during the Civil War.
5. Hayes was wounded multiple times, including at the Battle of South Mountain.
6. He was elected to Congress in 1864 while still serving in the military.
7. Hayes was a staunch abolitionist and defended escaped slaves in court.
8. He served three non-consecutive terms as Governor of Ohio.
9. His presidency lasted from 1877 to 1881, following a highly disputed election.
10. Hayes lost the popular vote to Samuel Tilden but won the presidency through electoral votes.
11. His election is often referred to as one of the most corrupt in U.S. history.
12. He promised to serve only one term and kept that promise by not seeking re-election.
13. Hayes was nicknamed “His Fraudulency” due to the controversy surrounding his election.
14. He initiated civil service reforms aimed at reducing patronage and corruption.
15. Under his administration, federal troops were withdrawn from the South, ending Reconstruction.
16. Hayes held the first Easter Egg Roll at the White House, a tradition that continues today.
17. His wife, Lucy, was known as “Lemonade Lucy” for serving lemonade instead of alcohol at White House events.
18. He negotiated a border dispute between Argentina and Paraguay, benefiting Paraguay significantly.
19. A state in Paraguay is named Presidente Hayes in his honor.
20. Hayes was a proponent of education and established several schools for African Americans.
21. He supported women’s education and advocated for their rights during his presidency.
22. Hayes had eight children with his wife, Lucy Ware Webb Hayes.
23. His administration faced significant labor unrest, including the Great Railroad Strike of 1877.
24. He called in federal troops to quell the Great Railroad Strike, resulting in violence and deaths.
25. Hayes vetoed the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which aimed to increase silver coinage.
26. The “B” in his name stands for Birchard, honoring his mother’s family name.
27. He was known for his moral integrity and commitment to honesty in politics.
28. Hayes’s presidency marked the transition from Reconstruction to the Gilded Age in America.
29. He was an early advocate for civil rights and sought to protect African Americans’ rights post-Civil War.
30. His administration saw significant economic recovery following the Panic of 1873.
31. Hayes was instrumental in establishing national parks and promoting conservation efforts.
32. After leaving office, he became involved in various humanitarian causes and educational initiatives.
33. He served on several boards and committees focused on social reform after his presidency.
34. Hayes was a member of the Methodist Church and incorporated his faith into his political life.
35. He had a strong interest in telegraphy and supported advancements in communication technology.
36. Hayes’s presidential library is located at Spiegel Grove State Park in Fremont, Ohio.
37. He was known for his love of reading and maintained a personal library of over 10,000 volumes.
38. During his presidency, he worked to improve relations between Native Americans and settlers through assimilation policies.
39. His administration faced challenges from both labor unions and business interests during economic upheaval.
40. Hayes’s legacy includes a focus on civil service reform that laid groundwork for future reforms under later presidents.
41. He died on January 17, 1893, from a heart attack at age 70.
42. Despite being less remembered today, he is celebrated in Paraguay for his diplomatic efforts.
Conclusion
Hayes may not be the most prominent figure in American presidential history, but his life and legacy are filled with fascinating stories and significant contributions that deserve recognition.
From his early commitment to abolition and civil rights to his efforts in education and civil service reform, Hayes exemplified a dedication to integrity and progress during a tumultuous period in the nation’s history.
His presidency, marked by controversy and compromise, laid the groundwork for future reforms and highlighted the complexities of governance in a rapidly changing America.
Through his actions and ideals, Hayes continues to inspire discussions about leadership, ethics, and the ongoing pursuit of equality in American society.
