Rutherford B. Hayes

Definition

Rutherford B. Hayes was the 19th President of the United States, serving from 1877 to 1881. He is best known for his role in the Compromise of 1877, which effectively ended the Reconstruction era by resolving the disputed 1876 presidential election and leading to the withdrawal of federal troops from the South, allowing for the return of white supremacy in southern states.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hayes' election was one of the most contentious in U.S. history, involving a disputed outcome that required a special electoral commission to resolve.
2. The Compromise of 1877 resulted in Hayes agreeing to withdraw federal troops from the South, effectively ending Reconstruction.
3. Despite his commitment to civil rights, Hayes faced criticism for his conciliatory approach towards Southern Democrats, which allowed discriminatory practices to flourish.
4. Hayes was also known for advocating for civil service reform, aiming to eliminate corruption in government jobs during his presidency.
5. After leaving office, Hayes became an advocate for education and social issues, notably supporting reforms aimed at improving public schools and promoting African American education.

Review Questions

• How did Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency contribute to the end of Reconstruction?
  • Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency marked the conclusion of Reconstruction through the Compromise of 1877. This agreement resolved the disputed 1876 election by granting Hayes the presidency in exchange for withdrawing federal troops from Southern states. The removal of these troops allowed Southern Democrats to regain control and implement policies that undermined the gains made by African Americans during Reconstruction.
• Evaluate the implications of the Compromise of 1877 on African Americans in the South during and after Hayes' presidency.
  • The Compromise of 1877 had severe implications for African Americans in the South. By withdrawing federal troops, it effectively ended federal enforcement of civil rights protections. This led to the implementation of Jim Crow laws, which enforced racial segregation and disenfranchised African Americans. As a result, many African Americans faced systemic oppression and violence, undermining their rights and freedoms that had been fought for during Reconstruction.
• Critically assess Rutherford B. Hayes' legacy in terms of civil rights and governance after his presidency.
  • Rutherford B. Hayes' legacy is complex when considering civil rights and governance. While he advocated for civil service reform and education during his presidency, his compromises regarding Southern politics led to significant setbacks for African Americans. After leaving office, he continued to push for educational reforms and social justice, but his presidency is often viewed as a turning point that allowed discriminatory practices to take root, raising questions about how political compromises can affect marginalized communities long after leadership changes.

Related terms

Compromise of 1877: A political agreement that settled the disputed 1876 presidential election, resulting in Hayes becoming president and the withdrawal of federal troops from Southern states.

Reconstruction: The period following the Civil War when the Southern states were reorganized and reintegrated into the Union, focused on rebuilding and addressing the rights of formerly enslaved people.

Jim Crow Laws: State and local laws that enforced racial segregation and disenfranchised African Americans in the South following the end of Reconstruction.