How Did Chester A Arthur Become President? Historical Facts

Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, is often remembered for his unexpected rise to the presidency. Born on October 5, 1829, in Fairfield, Vermont, Arthur's life took a dramatic turn when he became president after the assassination of President James A. Garfield. To understand how Arthur became president, it is essential to delve into the historical events that led to his presidency.

The Road to the Presidency

Arthur’s journey to the presidency began with his involvement in politics during the late 19th century. He started his career as a lawyer in New York City and soon became involved in local politics. Arthur’s affiliation with the Republican Party and his close relationship with Roscoe Conkling, a prominent Republican leader, played a significant role in his rise to prominence. In 1871, Arthur was appointed as the Collector of the Port of New York, a position that gave him control over a significant source of federal revenue and made him a key figure in the Republican Party.

Garfield’s Assassination

On July 2, 1881, President James A. Garfield was shot by Charles J. Guiteau, a disgruntled office seeker, at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station in Washington, D.C. Garfield’s assassination led to a period of uncertainty, and Vice President Chester A. Arthur was sworn in as the new President of the United States on September 20, 1881. Arthur’s ascension to the presidency was met with skepticism by many, who questioned his ability to lead the country. However, Arthur proved to be a capable and effective leader, surprising many with his strong stance on civil service reform and his commitment to the principles of the Republican Party.

One of the key factors that contributed to Arthur's successful presidency was his ability to work with Congress. Despite being a relatively unknown figure, Arthur was able to build strong relationships with key lawmakers, including Senator George F. Edmunds, who played a crucial role in supporting Arthur's legislative agenda. Arthur's leadership style, which emphasized compromise and cooperation, helped to ease tensions between the executive and legislative branches, allowing him to pass significant legislation, including the Pendleton Civil Service Act.

Arthur's commitment to civil service reform was a defining feature of his presidency. He believed that the federal government should be staffed by qualified individuals, rather than political appointees, and worked tirelessly to implement reforms that would reduce the influence of patronage in government. The Pendleton Civil Service Act, which was signed into law on January 16, 1883, was a major victory for Arthur and marked a significant shift in the way that the federal government operated.

Legacy of Chester A. Arthur

Chester A. Arthur’s presidency was marked by significant accomplishments, despite the circumstances that led to his ascension to the office. His commitment to civil service reform and his ability to work with Congress helped to establish him as a capable and effective leader. Arthur’s legacy serves as a reminder that even the most unexpected events can lead to significant changes in the course of history.

Historical Significance

Arthur’s presidency had a lasting impact on the United States, particularly in the area of civil service reform. The Pendleton Civil Service Act, which was passed during his presidency, helped to reduce the influence of patronage in government and established a merit-based system for federal appointments. This reform had far-reaching consequences, helping to professionalize the federal bureaucracy and reduce the power of political machines.

In addition to his contributions to civil service reform, Arthur's presidency was also marked by significant developments in foreign policy. During his time in office, Arthur oversaw the negotiation of several important treaties, including the 1882 Treaty of Peace, Amity, Commerce, and Navigation with the Ottoman Empire. This treaty helped to establish the United States as a major player in international affairs and marked a significant shift in the country's foreign policy.

Today, Chester A. Arthur is remembered as a president who defied expectations and proved to be a capable and effective leader. His commitment to civil service reform and his ability to work with Congress helped to establish him as a significant figure in American history. As the country continues to evolve and face new challenges, Arthur's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership, compromise, and effective governance.