Eight presidents have roots in Ohio, where today these communities take
pride in their heritage. William Henry Harrison, a Whig, served the
shortest period of time as any president, but his legacy is the campaign
strategy of 1840. Northern Whigs formed the Republican Party in 1854.
After the Civil War, Ohio became a swing state for the party in
presidential elections.
Ulysses S. Grant's exceptional leadership in the Civil War contrasted
with his problems as president. Rutherford B. Hayes ended Reconstruction
policies but could not protect the civil rights of African Americans in
the South. James A. Garfield died from a gunshot fired by a disappointed
office seeker. His death led to the first civil service laws. Benjamin
Harrison's administration included policies to improve the Navy and
economy, but he failed to win re-election. William McKinley won election
to the White House, campaigning for conservative policies. He led the
nation into the Spanish American War. An anarchist assassinated him, and
Theodore Roosevelt became president. Serving two terms, Roosevelt wanted
William H. Taft to succeed him as president. He soon criticized Taft for
being too conservative. In spite of scandals in his administration,
Warren G. Harding had important accomplishments in foreign and domestic
affairs.
