Chester A. Arthur: The Swearing-In of the 21st President

Name: Chester A. Arthur: The Swearing-In of the 21st President
Start: 1829-09-20
Location: Unspecified

The Historic Day: Swearing In of Chester A. Arthur

On September 20, 1881, the United States witnessed a pivotal moment in its history as Chester A. Arthur was sworn in as the 21st President of the United States. This transition came about after the tragic assassination of President James A. Garfield. Arthur, who had served as Vice President under Garfield, found himself in an unexpected position of leadership during a time of great uncertainty in the nation.

The ceremony took place in a somber atmosphere, reflecting the shock and sorrow surrounding Garfield’s death. Arthur's ascension to the presidency marked a significant change in the political landscape of the era, as he was not initially regarded as a strong candidate for the presidency but would eventually leave his mark on the political practices of his time.

Chester A. Arthur's Background

Chester A. Arthur was born on October 5, 1829, in Fairfield, Vermont. Before his political career, he was a successful attorney and became known for his strong work in New York politics. His previous political affiliations included both the Republican and Whig parties, giving him a diverse background that shaped his presidency.

The Challenges Faced by Chester A. Arthur

Upon taking office, Arthur faced several challenges including political corruption and the urgent need for civil service reform. The assassination of Garfield had highlighted the excesses of the patronage system, making it clear that reform was necessary. Arthur took surprising strides in advocating for these reforms, showing his adaptability and commitment to public service.

The Legacy of Chester A. Arthur's Presidency

Chester A. Arthur served as president until March 4, 1885. Despite starting his term during a turbulent time, his presidency is notable for its focus on reform and modernization. Arthur is particularly remembered for the successful passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act, which established that positions within the federal government should be awarded based on merit rather than political affiliation.

Impact of the Pendleton Act

The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act was groundbreaking, laying the foundation for the modern workforce in federal employment. Arthur's support for this legislation shifted the expectations of how government jobs were filled, which contributed significantly to reducing corruption in federal hiring practices.

Chester A. Arthur's Enduring Influence

Arthur’s presidency, often overlooked, had lasting implications for American politics. His efforts to reform the civil service are considered a key component of his legacy, demonstrating that even those who face adversity can rise and enact meaningful change in governance.

Fun Fact

Did You Know About Chester A. Arthur?

Despite his reputation as a politician tied to the patronage system, Chester A. Arthur surprised many by becoming a reformer. His commitment to modernizing the civil service left an unexpected yet important legacy during his presidency.