Presidency of Warren G. Harding

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The presidency of Warren G. Harding began on March 4, 1921, when Warren G. Harding was inaugurated as the 29th president of the United States, and ended with his death on August 2, 1923. Harding, a member of the Republican Party, was succeeded by his vice president, Calvin Coolidge.

Domestic Policies

Harding's administration is often remembered for its pro-business stance and efforts to reduce the national debt. He advocated for a "return to normalcy" following the upheaval of World War I. His domestic policies included tax cuts, particularly for the wealthy, and efforts to reduce government regulation of business.

Economic Policies

Harding's economic policies were characterized by a focus on reducing the national debt and lowering taxes. The Revenue Act of 1921 was one of the key pieces of legislation during his presidency, which reduced taxes on high incomes and corporate profits. Harding also supported the establishment of the Bureau of the Budget to streamline government expenditures.

Labor and Social Issues

Harding's administration faced significant labor unrest, including strikes in the coal and railroad industries. He signed the Sheppard-Towner Maternity and Infancy Act, which provided federal funding for maternity and child care, marking a significant step in social welfare policy.

Foreign Policies

Harding's foreign policy was marked by a desire to return to isolationism and avoid entanglements in foreign alliances. He supported the Washington Naval Conference, which aimed to prevent an arms race by limiting naval construction among the major powers.

Washington Naval Conference

The Washington Naval Conference of 1921-1922 was a significant achievement of Harding's presidency. The conference resulted in several treaties that limited naval armaments and aimed to prevent future conflicts. The Five-Power Treaty, Four-Power Treaty, and Nine-Power Treaty were all outcomes of this conference.

Scandals and Controversies

Harding's presidency was marred by several scandals, the most infamous being the Teapot Dome scandal. This involved the secret leasing of federal oil reserves by the Secretary of the Interior, Albert B. Fall, who was later convicted of accepting bribes.

Teapot Dome Scandal

The Teapot Dome scandal was a major political scandal that took place during Harding's presidency. It involved the secret leasing of federal oil reserves at Teapot Dome, Wyoming, and other locations to private companies in exchange for bribes. The scandal significantly tarnished Harding's reputation and led to greater scrutiny of government corruption.

Death and Legacy

Harding died suddenly of a heart attack on August 2, 1923, while on a speaking tour in San Francisco, California. His death brought an abrupt end to his presidency, and he was succeeded by Vice President Calvin Coolidge. Harding's legacy is often viewed through the lens of the scandals that plagued his administration, though some historians also note his efforts to promote economic growth and stability.

Related Pages

• Warren G. Harding
• Calvin Coolidge
• Teapot Dome scandal
• Washington Naval Conference
• Revenue Act of 1921
• Sheppard-Towner Maternity and Infancy Act

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