Gilded Age Politics

The latest news of the election was that it was too close to call between the two candidates. The Democratic candidate won 51% of the popular vote, but neither candidate had a majority of the electoral vote, as the Constitution requires. Several Southern states were in dispute with reports of voter fraud. The election had to be settled, but how? Does this sound familiar? The election of 1876 between Rutherford Hayes (Republican) and Samuel Tilden (Democrat) was finally settled by a Congressional Committee. When Hayes was chosen, many Americans were upset and called the new President, "Rutherfraud" Hayes.

Today, it is hard for us to imagine the political process without mass advertising, polls, or the 24-hour news shows. Many Americans were glued to their television sets during the 2000 election and ratings skyrocketed for networks as we waited for a decision on the President. For the people living in 1876, how did they function without receiving a news update ever half hour? How popular was politics over a hundred years ago? How did candidates campaign for office? What did voters expect from their candidates?

The years from 1877 until 1900 are commonly referred to in American History as the Gilded Age. The term implies that while things appear to glitter on the outside, a closer look reveals greed and corruption. Mark Twain coined this term because he was appalled at the rampant corruption in American society. A look into the political process itself provides a prime example of the baseness that existed in the late 19th century. Political office was a way for many to amass personal fortunes. In fact it seemed the political parties were more concerned with the spoils of office rather than the affairs of the country. It is odd however, that during this time the office of president was filled with respectable and honest men. Honest men, but not strong leaders. The names Rutherford Hayes, James Garfield, Chester Arthur, Grover Cleveland, Benjamin Harrison, and William McKinley do not readily spring to mind when discussing great American presidents.

Even though the political process was corrupt at times, politics played a huge role in American society. Politics was a prime form entertainment. During the presidential elections between the years 1876 and 1896 voters turned out in record numbers to participate. It is estimated that between 80 and 90 percent of eligible voters participated in local and national elections. Although only men could vote, political campaigns were events that excited entire communities.* Voting was only the last step in the process. Political campaigns often included picnics, rallies, open-air speeches, and parades. One of the more interesting campaigns took place during the election of 1884. The Republican Party nominated James G. Blaine while the Democratic Party ran Grover Cleveland. Both candidates campaigned on images of honesty and respectability. During the campaign Blaine's image was tarnished when it was revealed that he had used his political influence to obtain favorable financial deals for railroads while taking payment in return. Likewise, Cleveland's respectability came into question when the confirmed bachelor admitted to having fathered an illegitimate son. As a result during political rallies Democrats would chant: "Blaine, Blaine, James G. Blaine continental liar from the state of Maine." Meanwhile, Republicans retorted: "Ma, Ma, Where's my Pa?" Cleveland went on to win this extremely close race and when Republicans shouted, "Ma, Ma, Where's my Pa?" Democrats would answer, "He's gone to the White House, Ha, Ha, Ha!"

In the late 19th century most Americans wanted an impartial government. They did not expect much from government and did not want it to interfere in economic and social matters. So it is a safe assumption that most Americans were content with the do-nothing government of the Gilded Age. The present-day term, "gridlock," could be applied to this era. Congress did deal with issues such as civil service reform and the currency, nevertheless, partisan politics hindered much needed legislation. To look at this time period, it becomes clear that the government itself was not set up to accomplish much. For instance, from 1877 to 1897 the Republicans controlled the Executive office for twelve years and the Democrats for eight. Only three times, for two-year spans, did the same party control both houses of Congress and the Presidency (the Republicans twice, the Democrats once). Because the President was rarely of the same party as the majority of Congress, the two branches blocked rather than supported reform efforts. Political parties themselves were split internally. In both the Republican and Democratic Parties factionalism and personal rivalries existed.

Not all Americans though were content with lack of action from their government. With the political scandals of Grant's administration there were a growing number of individuals who were frustrated with both political parties. Known as independents, they began to advocate political reform. Most independents campaigned for Civil Service reform and the destruction of the so-called spoils system. This was the practice of rewarding government jobs to loyal party workers, regardless of their qualifications. Statistics show that federal government jobs between the years 1865 and 1891 more than tripled. Eventually, Congress took steps to reform the Civil Service but not before tragedy occurred. In 1881, Charles Guiteau, a disgruntled job seeker, assassinated President James Garfield. The murder of President Garfield accelerated a drive for reform. Late in 1882 Congress passed the Pendleton Civil Service Act and President Chester Arthur signed it into law. The law created the Civil Service Commission and set up examinations for government positions.

Looking at the current political process it is interesting to note some similarities to Gilded Age politics. The issue of the role and responsibility of government in American lives was debated by the candidates then and now. Also, candidates continue to discredit their opponent's character and plans for the United States. One aspect we must always retain from our Gilded Age ancestors is to be involved and participate in the voting process.

* Note: In the South, black males endured voting restrictions. Also, women were granted the right vote in Wyoming in 1890.