JAMES A. GARFIELD 20th President of the US 1881 Buschistory Presents – The Presidents

The Election 1.President: James A. Garfield__ Number 20 VP - Chester A. Arthur 2. Political Party Republican 3. Term of Office March 4-Sept. 19, Who came before and after him, and what were their Political parties? Rutherford B. Hayes (Republican) preceded him and Chester A. Arthur (Republican) followed him. 5. Were there any unusual circumstances surrounding his ascent to the presidency? If so, describe the situation in specific detail. In a time of dispute over money and government’s role the Republican party was divided. Some wanted U.S. Grant to run again. Others wanted James Blaine (Maine) or John Sherman (Ohio). James Garfield was head of the rules committee and largely unnoticed. As the convention wore on and none of the “Big Three” received enough votes for nomination James Garfield came into the picture, and after several ballots a surprised Garfield was nominated. The Republican position on Hard money and the Tariff allowed Garfield to win. Electoral Vote – Garfield 214, Hancock 155

The Office 6. Are there any catch phrases or terms specifically associated with this president? If so, list and explain them. None 7. When he left office, was it by: choice, defeat, natural death, assassination, or resignation. Explain your answer. Assassination – Charles Guiteau had been a Garfield supporter but was rebuked for diplomatic position. Feeling betrayed he assassinated Garfield.

Domestic Issues and Events 1881 – Star Route Scandal - Mail route contracts were being awarded based on Bribery. It cost taxpayers $4M

Foreign Policy and Events