POTUS

William McKinley: AP United States History Rundown

William McKinley served as the 25th President of the United States from 1897 until his assassination in September 1901. His presidency is most associated with economic prosperity, high tariffs, and Imperialism 1890s-1950s.

Key Events and Associations

• Presidential Election of 1896: McKinley, a Republicans|Republican, defeated William Jennings Bryan (Democrats|Democrat) in a landmark election that solidified Republican dominance for decades. The key issue was the economy and the debate over the Gold Standard versus Bimetallism. Mark Hanna served as his campaign manager.
• Spanish-American War: McKinley led the nation during this brief but impactful war in 1898. The war resulted in Spain ceding territories like Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Guam to the United States.
• Annexation of Hawaii: In 1898, under McKinley’s leadership, the United States formally annexed Hawaii.
• Philippine-American War: Following the Spanish-American War, the United States became involved in a conflict with Filipino nationalists who sought independence.
• Open Door Policy: McKinley’s Secretary of State, John Hay, promoted the Open Door Policy in China, aiming to secure equal trading rights for all nations.
• Assassination: McKinley was shot by Leon Czolgosz, an anarchist, on September 6, 1901, and died eight days later. Theodore Roosevelt succeeded him as president.

Important Legislation

• Dingley Tariff Act (1897): Raised tariffs to record levels, fulfilling a Republican promise to protect American industries.

Groups and Affiliations

• Republicans|Republican Party: A staunch Republican, McKinley promoted business interests and conservative fiscal policies.

Impact on the Country

• Economic Growth: McKinley’s presidency coincided with a period of economic recovery and prosperity following the Panic of 1893. His support for the Gold Standard promoted stability.
• Imperialism 1890s-1950s: McKinley’s administration significantly expanded American influence overseas. The acquisition of new territories after the Spanish-American War marked a turning point in American foreign policy. His administration led to the Philippine-American War as well as the Open Door Policy.
• Increased Presidential Power: McKinley’s leadership during the Spanish-American War and his assertive foreign policy initiatives contributed to the expansion of presidential power.
• Shift in Political Alignment: The 1896 election established the Republican Party as the dominant political force for the next generation.