U.S. Presidents

A Detailed Timeline of William McKinley’s Presidency

William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, served from March 4, 1897, until his assassination on September 6, 1901. His presidency was marked by significant events, including the Spanish-American War, economic policy debates, and his tragic assassination. This article provides a detailed timeline of McKinley’s presidency, highlighting key dates and events that defined his time in office.

Early Presidency and Domestic Policies: March 1897 – 1898

  • March 4, 1897: William McKinley is inaugurated as the 25th President of the United States. His inaugural address emphasizes economic recovery, protective tariffs, and the need for national unity. McKinley’s presidency begins amid a period of economic uncertainty following the Panic of 1893.
  • March 8, 1897: McKinley appoints his Cabinet, including John Sherman as Secretary of State, Lyman J. Gage as Secretary of the Treasury, and Russell A. Alger as Secretary of War. These appointments reflect his focus on experienced leadership and addressing key domestic issues.
  • July 24, 1897: McKinley signs the Dingley Tariff Act into law. The Act raises import duties to protect American industries from foreign competition, reflecting McKinley’s commitment to protective tariffs as a means of promoting economic growth and stability.
  • September 1897: McKinley addresses the economic depression of the 1890s by supporting the gold standard and advocating for measures to restore confidence in the U.S. financial system. His policies aim to stabilize the economy and support recovery.

Spanish-American War: 1898

  • February 15, 1898: The USS Maine explodes in Havana Harbor, killing 266 American sailors. The explosion is attributed to an external attack, leading to heightened tensions between the United States and Spain.
  • April 11, 1898: McKinley delivers a message to Congress requesting a declaration of war against Spain. His message outlines the need to support Cuban independence and address the humanitarian crisis resulting from Spanish rule in Cuba.
  • April 25, 1898: Congress declares war on Spain, marking the beginning of the Spanish-American War. McKinley’s decision to go to war is driven by a combination of humanitarian concerns and strategic interests.
  • August 12, 1898: The United States and Spain sign an armistice, effectively ending hostilities in the Spanish-American War. The armistice marks a significant turning point in McKinley’s presidency and reflects the success of American military and diplomatic efforts.
  • December 10, 1898: The Treaty of Paris is signed, officially ending the Spanish-American War. The treaty grants the United States control over Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, and recognizes Cuban independence. McKinley’s administration oversees the acquisition of these territories, expanding American influence and power.

Domestic and Economic Issues: 1899 – 1900

  • March 1899: McKinley faces debates over the future of the newly acquired territories, particularly the Philippines. His administration begins to address the challenges of governing and administering these territories, including dealing with the Philippine-American War, a conflict between American forces and Filipino insurgents seeking independence.
  • July 1899: The Foraker Act is signed into law, establishing a civilian government in Puerto Rico. The Act provides a framework for the governance of Puerto Rico and reflects McKinley’s approach to managing the newly acquired territories.
  • October 1899: McKinley addresses economic issues related to the gold standard and currency reform. His administration supports the continuation of the gold standard as a means of maintaining financial stability and promoting economic growth.
  • 1900: The Presidential Election of 1900 features McKinley running for re-election against Democratic candidate William Jennings Bryan. The campaign focuses on economic issues, including the gold standard and the results of the Spanish-American War.

Re-Election and Second Term: 1901

  • November 6, 1900: William McKinley is re-elected as President of the United States, defeating William Jennings Bryan. McKinley’s re-election reflects public support for his policies and achievements, particularly in relation to the Spanish-American War and economic recovery.
  • March 4, 1901: McKinley is inaugurated for his second term. His second term begins with a focus on continuing his administration’s policies, including managing the newly acquired territories and addressing domestic economic issues.

Assassination and Aftermath: 1901

  • September 6, 1901: President McKinley is shot by anarchist Leon Czolgosz during a public event at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. McKinley is shot twice, with one bullet striking his abdomen and the other his chest.
  • September 13, 1901: McKinley undergoes surgery to remove the bullets and address complications from his wounds. Despite the surgery, his condition worsens due to infections and other complications.
  • September 14, 1901: McKinley’s condition deteriorates significantly, and he is visited by family and friends as he remains in critical condition. The nation watches with concern as McKinley’s health continues to decline.
  • September 19, 1901: President William McKinley dies from his wounds and complications at the age of 58. His death marks the end of his presidency and leads to widespread mourning across the country.

Legacy and Impact

William McKinley’s presidency is characterized by several key achievements and challenges:

  • Spanish-American War: McKinley’s leadership during the Spanish-American War results in the acquisition of several territories and reflects American expansionist ambitions. The war marks a turning point in U.S. foreign policy and establishes the United States as a global power.
  • Economic Policies: McKinley’s support for protective tariffs and the gold standard helps stabilize the U.S. economy and promotes economic growth. His policies are instrumental in addressing the economic challenges of the late 19th century.
  • Assassination: McKinley’s assassination by Leon Czolgosz brings attention to issues of presidential security and the need for improved measures to protect the President. His death leads to increased focus on security protocols and the role of the Secret Service.
  • Expansion and Imperialism: McKinley’s presidency is marked by the acquisition of new territories and the expansion of American influence. His policies and actions reflect the complexities of American imperialism and the challenges of governing newly acquired territories.

Conclusion

William McKinley’s presidency, while tragically cut short, played a crucial role in shaping American history during a period of significant change. His leadership during the Spanish-American War, economic policies, and tragic assassination contribute to his legacy as a pivotal figure in U.S. history. McKinley’s presidency reflects the dynamic nature of American politics and governance at the turn of the 20th century, and his impact continues to be remembered as an important part of American history.