Presidential Resources Online

Benjamin Harrison 1889 - 1893

Picture of Benjamin Harrison
    Benjamin Harrison was born in 1833 on a farm near Cincinnati, Ohio.  He was the grandson of President William Henry Harrison, and as a young man he attended Miami University of Ohio, and later practiced law in Indianapolis.  He quickly gained a reputation as an outstanding lawyer, and he became very active in the Republican party.  He served as a Colonel during the Civil War.  After the war he continued to build his reputation, and he was elected to the U.S. Senate during the 1880's.  In 1888 he defeated Grover Cleveland for the Presidency despite having received fewer popular votes.  As President Harrison worked to promote the growth of America's industrial and economic power.  He supported large expenditures on internal improvements, naval technology, and transportation.  He also supported free-trade legislation.  Perhaps his most significant legacy is the Sherman Anti-Trust Act, which was the first federal legislation regulating trusts.  Harrison did not win re-election in 1892, and after leaving office he returned to Indianapolis where he died in 1901.

Online Benjamin Harrison Resources:

President Benjamin Harrison Home - This is the official website of the Benjamin Harrison Home and Museum in Indianapolis.  It contains information on the museum as well as information on Benjamin Harrison's life and career.
 


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