Presidency of Chester A. Arthur

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The Presidency of Chester A. Arthur began on September 19, 1881, following the assassination of President James A. Garfield, and ended on March 4, 1885. Chester A. Arthur was the 21st President of the United States, serving a single term. His presidency is noted for significant civil service reform and efforts to modernize the United States Navy.

Early Life and Career

Chester Alan Arthur was born on October 5, 1829, in Fairfield, Vermont. He graduated from Union College in 1848 and later became a lawyer in New York City. Arthur was a member of the Republican Party and held various political positions, including Collector of the Port of New York.

Assumption of the Presidency

Arthur became president after the assassination of James A. Garfield on September 19, 1881. Initially, there were doubts about his ability to lead, but he soon proved to be a capable and reform-minded president.

Major Policies and Events

Civil Service Reform

One of Arthur's most significant achievements was the passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act in 1883. This act established a merit-based system for federal employment, reducing the influence of the spoils system and laying the groundwork for modern civil service.

Tariff and Trade Policies

Arthur advocated for tariff reform and signed the Tariff of 1883, which slightly reduced tariffs. He also supported the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which restricted Chinese immigration to the United States.

Naval Modernization

Arthur recognized the importance of a strong navy and initiated efforts to modernize the United States Navy. He oversaw the construction of new steel warships, marking the beginning of the transition from wooden ships to a modern naval fleet.

Domestic Affairs

Arthur's presidency saw a focus on civil rights and economic issues. He vetoed the River and Harbor Act of 1882 due to concerns about excessive spending and corruption. Additionally, he supported the Edmunds Act, which targeted polygamy in the Utah Territory.

Foreign Policy

Arthur's foreign policy was relatively quiet, focusing on maintaining peaceful relations and expanding American influence through diplomacy. He supported the construction of the Panama Canal and worked to improve relations with Latin America.

Health and Death

Arthur suffered from Bright's disease, a kidney ailment, which affected his health during his presidency. He did not seek re-election in 1884 and was succeeded by Grover Cleveland. Arthur died on November 18, 1886, in New York City.

Legacy

Chester A. Arthur's presidency is often remembered for his unexpected rise to the office and his commitment to civil service reform. His efforts to modernize the navy and his moderate stance on various issues have earned him a place among the more effective presidents of the late 19th century.

Related Pages

• James A. Garfield
• Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act
• Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882
• United States Navy
• Grover Cleveland

References

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