The 1872 US Presidential Election: A Look Back

The 1872 US Presidential Election was a pivotal moment in American history, marking a period of significant political and social change. It was a time of national healing following the Civil War, but also a time of deep divisions over issues such as Reconstruction and the role of the federal government.

The Candidates and Their Platforms

The election featured three main contenders:

• Ulysses S. Grant (Republican): Incumbent President Grant ran on a platform of continuing Reconstruction efforts in the South, promoting industrial growth, and maintaining a strong military presence. He was seen as a symbol of national unity and a strong leader, but his administration was plagued by scandals, including the Credit Mobilier scandal, which involved corruption in the construction of the transcontinental railroad.
• Horace Greeley (Liberal Republican/Democratic): Greeley was a prominent newspaper editor and a staunch opponent of Grant’s policies. He ran on a platform of ending Reconstruction, reducing government spending, and promoting civil liberties. He was supported by a coalition of Liberal Republicans and Democrats, but his candidacy was weakened by his inconsistent political views and his support for amnesty for Confederate leaders.
• Thomas A. Hendricks (Democratic): Hendricks was a former Indiana governor who ran on a platform of opposing Grant’s policies and calling for a return to states’ rights. However, he was overshadowed by Greeley’s candidacy and ultimately lost the election.

The Rise of Third Parties

The 1872 election also saw the emergence of several third parties, including the Equal Rights Party, which nominated Victoria Woodhull, the first woman to run for President in American history. Woodhull’s candidacy brought attention to the women’s suffrage movement and challenged traditional gender roles.

The Election Results

Grant ultimately won the election with a landslide victory, receiving 286 electoral votes to Greeley’s 66. However, Greeley’s strong showing reflected the growing dissatisfaction with Grant’s administration and the divisions within the Republican Party. Greeley died shortly after the election, and his death was seen as a symbolic end to the Liberal Republican movement.

The Impact of the Election

The 1872 election had a significant impact on the future of the country. Grant’s victory solidified his power and allowed him to continue his policies, including Reconstruction. However, the election also showed the growing discontent with the Republican Party and the rise of third parties. It also highlighted the importance of civil liberties and the growing demand for women’s suffrage.

Conclusion

The 1872 US Presidential Election was a complex and consequential event in American history. It reflected the nation’s struggles with Reconstruction, the rise of third parties, and the growing demand for political and social change. The election’s legacy continues to shape the American political landscape today.