Rutherford B. Hayes

Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, presided over a nation in transition from the tumultuous Reconstruction era to the dawn of the Gilded Age. His presidency, though often overshadowed by the controversial election that brought him to office, was marked by efforts to reconcile a divided country, promote civil service reform, and address the pressing issues of his time. This biography explores Hayes’ life, from his early years and military service to his presidency and enduring legacy. 

Early Life and Education

Birth and Family Background

Rutherford Birchard Hayes was born on October 4, 1822, in Delaware, Ohio. He was the son of Rutherford Hayes, Jr., a storekeeper who died before his son’s birth, and Sophia Birchard Hayes. His mother, a strong and resourceful woman, raised Rutherford and his siblings with the help of her brother, Sardis Birchard, who became a significant influence in Rutherford’s life (Hoogenboom, 1995). 

Education

Hayes was a diligent student, attending local schools before enrolling at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. He graduated as valedictorian in 1842. Hayes then studied law at Harvard Law School, where he earned his degree in 1845. His education at Harvard exposed him to leading legal minds and helped shape his views on justice and governance (Hoogenboom, 1995). 

Early Career and Personal Life

Legal Career

After graduating from Harvard, Hayes returned to Ohio to begin his legal career. He established a successful law practice in Lower Sandusky (now Fremont) and quickly earned a reputation for his integrity and skill as a lawyer. Hayes’ legal career provided him with a solid foundation in public service and helped him build connections that would later support his political ambitions (Trefousse, 2002). 

Marriage and Family

In 1852, Hayes married Lucy Webb, a college-educated woman who shared his commitment to social causes and reform. Lucy Hayes became a beloved First Lady, known for her advocacy of temperance and her efforts to support soldiers and veterans. The couple had eight children, five of whom survived to adulthood. Their marriage was marked by mutual respect and a shared dedication to public service (Barnard, 2005). 

Civil War Service

Enlistment and Early Service

With the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, Hayes volunteered for service in the Union Army, despite having no previous military experience. He was commissioned as a major in the 23rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, a regiment that included future President William McKinley. Hayes quickly distinguished himself as a capable and courageous officer (Trefousse, 2002). 

Promotion and Battles

Hayes participated in several key battles, including the Battle of South Mountain and the Battle of Antietam. He was wounded multiple times, demonstrating his bravery and commitment to the Union cause. His leadership and tactical skills earned him promotions, culminating in the rank of brevet major general by the end of the war. Hayes’ military service bolstered his reputation and laid the groundwork for his political career (Barnard, 2005). 

Political Career

Early Political Involvement

After the Civil War, Hayes returned to Ohio and resumed his legal practice. His wartime service and growing prominence in the Republican Party led to his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1865. As a congressman, Hayes supported Reconstruction policies and worked to protect the rights of freed slaves. His moderate stance and ability to work across party lines earned him respect from his colleagues (Trefousse, 2002). 

Governorship of Ohio

In 1867, Hayes was elected governor of Ohio, a position he held for two terms. As governor, he focused on education reform, infrastructure development, and efforts to combat corruption. His successful governorship further enhanced his political profile and positioned him as a leading figure in the Republican Party. After a brief hiatus from politics, Hayes returned to serve a third term as governor in 1875, where he continued to advocate for progressive reforms (Barnard, 2005). 

Presidential Election of 1876

Controversial Election

The presidential election of 1876 was one of the most contentious in American history. Hayes ran as the Republican candidate against Democrat Samuel J. Tilden. The election results were disputed, with both parties claiming victory in several states. The controversy led to the establishment of an electoral commission to resolve the dispute (Peskin, 1978). 

Compromise of 1877

The electoral commission awarded the disputed electoral votes to Hayes, making him the winner by a single electoral vote. In return for Democratic acquiescence, Hayes agreed to withdraw federal troops from the South, effectively ending Reconstruction. This agreement, known as the Compromise of 1877, secured Hayes’ presidency but left a legacy of unresolved racial tensions and disenfranchisement of African Americans in the South (Woodward, 1951). 

Presidency

Domestic Policies

Civil Service Reform

One of Hayes’ primary goals as president was to reform the civil service to reduce corruption and improve government efficiency. He implemented merit-based hiring practices and worked to dismantle the patronage system. Hayes’ commitment to civil service reform laid the groundwork for future legislation, including the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883 (Hoogenboom, 1995). 

Economic Policy

Hayes also focused on economic issues, particularly the debate over currency. He supported the resumption of specie payments, which meant that paper money could once again be redeemed for gold. This policy aimed to stabilize the economy and restore confidence in the national currency, though it faced opposition from those who favored inflationary measures (Barnard, 2005). 

Foreign Policy

Relations with Latin America

Hayes’ foreign policy was marked by efforts to improve relations with Latin American countries. He advocated for the construction of a canal across Central America to enhance trade and strengthen economic ties. Hayes’ administration laid the groundwork for future negotiations and the eventual construction of the Panama Canal (Peskin, 1978). 

Native American Policy

Hayes’ administration faced significant challenges in its dealings with Native American tribes. While he sought to promote policies of assimilation and education, the implementation often resulted in the displacement and mistreatment of Native Americans. The Dawes Act, which aimed to distribute tribal lands to individual members, was passed shortly after Hayes left office and reflected the ongoing issues of his administration’s policies (Trefousse, 2002). 

Post-Presidency

Advocacy and Public Service

After leaving office in 1881, Hayes remained active in public life. He dedicated himself to educational and humanitarian causes, serving on the boards of several institutions and advocating for prison reform, universal education, and the rights of African Americans. Hayes believed in the importance of civic engagement and continued to influence public policy through his post-presidential activities (Barnard, 2005). 

Personal Life and Legacy

Hayes and his wife, Lucy, retired to their home in Fremont, Ohio, known as Spiegel Grove. Lucy’s death in 1889 was a profound loss for Hayes, who continued his public service work until his own death on January 17, 1893. Hayes was buried at Spiegel Grove, which later became a National Historic Landmark (Hoogenboom, 1995). 

Historical Assessment

Contributions and Criticisms

Rutherford B. Hayes’ presidency is often assessed in light of its immediate and long-term impacts. His efforts to reform the civil service and promote economic stability were significant achievements, though his administration’s effectiveness was hindered by the legacy of the Compromise of 1877. Critics argue that Hayes’ decision to withdraw federal troops from the South abandoned African Americans to the oppressive Jim Crow laws that followed (Woodward, 1951). 

Legacy

Hayes’ commitment to integrity and public service has earned him a respected place in American history. His dedication to education, civil rights, and governmental reform influenced subsequent generations of leaders. While his presidency may not be as celebrated as those of other figures, Hayes’ contributions to the nation’s development during a critical period of transition remain noteworthy (Trefousse, 2002). 

Final Summary

Rutherford B. Hayes’ life and career exemplify the complexities of leadership during a period of significant national change. From his early legal career and military service to his presidency and post-presidential advocacy, Hayes demonstrated a commitment to public service and reform. His efforts to navigate the challenges of Reconstruction, promote civil service reform, and address economic issues reflect a nuanced legacy that continues to be studied and appreciated.

 

References

Barnard, H. (2005). Rutherford B. Hayes: And His America. American Political Biography Press.

Hoogenboom, A. (1995). Rutherford B. Hayes: Warrior and President. University Press of Kansas.

Peskin, A. (1978). Garfield: A Biography. Kent State University Press.

Trefousse, H. L. (2002). Rutherford B. Hayes. Henry Holt & Company.

Woodward, C. V. (1951). Reunion and Reaction: The Compromise of 1877 and the End of Reconstruction. Oxford University Press.