William McKinley

25th President of the United States

What is William McKinley known for?

William McKinley Jr., a notable alumnus from Poland Seminary High School in Poland, Ohio, was the 25th President of the United States. He was born on January 29, 1843, in Niles, Ohio. McKinley served as the U.S. President from March 4, 1897, until his tragic assassination on September 14, 1901. Throughout his life, he made significant contributions to American history and politics, including his role as the 39th Governor of Ohio from January 11, 1892, to January 13, 1896, and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio.

Prior to his presidency, McKinley held the position of Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee from March 4, 1889, to March 3, 1891. His tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives spanned three distinct periods, representing different districts of Ohio from March 4, 1885, to March 3, 1891, and from March 4, 1877, to May 27, 1884. A devoted Republican, he took office as the President following Grover Cleveland and was subsequently succeeded by Theodore Roosevelt in 1901.

McKinley's presidency was marked by significant events and legislations, such as the Dingley Tariff, the Hawaiian Annexation, and the Spanish-American War. The famous McKinley Tariff bears his name, reflecting his influential role in fiscal policy. Furthermore, during his tenure, McKinley was noted for his leadership during the Philippine-American War, the enforcement of the Gold Standard Act, and dealing with the Boxer Rebellion.

Before entering politics, McKinley served in the U.S. Army from 1861 to 1865 during the Civil War, reaching the rank of Brevet Major in the 23rd Ohio Infantry. He pursued law as a profession after obtaining his education at Allegheny College, Mount Union College, and Albany Law School.

Despite his accomplished professional life, McKinley faced personal tragedy in his final days. He died aged 58 in Buffalo, New York, due to complications from an assassination attempt. His resting place is the McKinley National Memorial in Canton, Ohio.