James Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, is often remembered for the tragic circumstances surrounding his assassination just months into his presidency. However, his legacy extends far beyond that brief tenure.
A man of profound intellect, Garfield rose from humble beginnings to become a scholar, Civil War hero, long-serving congressman, and champion of reform. His political career spanned one of the most transformative periods in American history, during which he left a lasting impact on issues such as civil rights, economic policy, and government reform.
From his battlefield heroics to his vision for a modernized navy, Garfield’s accomplishments reveal a leader who was deeply committed to national progress and integrity. Though his time as president was short, the foundations he laid helped steer the nation toward reforms that would shape the post-Reconstruction era.
Accomplishments of James Garfield
1. Civil War Hero & Brigadier General
James Garfield’s early success came through his distinguished service during the Civil War. Initially serving as a lieutenant colonel, Garfield quickly rose through the ranks due to his strategic insight and leadership.
His most notable achievement on the battlefield was at the Battle of Middle Creek in January 1862, where his tactical planning led to a decisive Union victory over Confederate forces in eastern Kentucky.
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For his actions, he was promoted to Brigadier General, further demonstrating his ability to command troops effectively. His military reputation not only made him a war hero but also gave him the recognition needed to transition into politics.
2. Long-Serving U.S. Congressman (1863-1880)
Garfield represented Ohio’s 19th Congressional District for 17 years, making him a prominent Republican voice during a period of national reconstruction and change.
As a congressman, he worked on some of the most influential committees, such as the House Ways and Means Committee and the Appropriations Committee, helping to shape federal spending and taxation policies.
His leadership during the critical post-Civil War era allowed him to influence issues like national infrastructure development, veterans’ benefits, and industrial growth. His longevity in office reflected his ability to balance party interests with those of his constituents.
3. Advocated for African American Civil Rights
A committed supporter of civil rights, Garfield firmly believed in the equality of African Americans and the necessity of federal protection for their newly gained freedoms. During Reconstruction, he frequently spoke out against racial violence and discriminatory practices, including those perpetuated by the Ku Klux Klan.
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Garfield advocated for continued enforcement of the 14th and 15th Amendments, which guaranteed equal protection under the law and voting rights for African Americans. His commitment to civil rights also included supporting legislation aimed at protecting African American voters in the South, though much of this progress was later reversed after his death.
4. Champion of Education
Garfield was an educator at heart, having served as a teacher and later as the President of Hiram College before entering politics. His passion for education shaped much of his policy work. He believed that education was fundamental to individual empowerment and the preservation of democracy.
As a congressman, he consistently pushed for federal funding to expand access to public education, particularly for African Americans and impoverished communities in the South. Garfield’s support of education also extended to the development of vocational schools, which he believed could offer economic mobility for working-class Americans.
5. Skilled Orator and Public Speaker
Garfield’s eloquence and intellectual prowess made him one of the most respected speakers of his time. His speeches in Congress often demonstrated a deep understanding of history, economics, and law, which allowed him to sway opinions on critical national issues.
Garfield was particularly effective in debates concerning the nation’s fiscal policies, where he made compelling arguments in favor of the gold standard and financial stability. His speeches during Reconstruction and in defense of African American rights were equally influential, helping to establish him as a leading figure in the Republican Party.
6. Reformer of the Civil Service System
Although Garfield’s presidency was brief, he took significant steps to address the rampant corruption in the federal government’s hiring practices. The spoils system, which awarded government jobs based on political connections rather than merit, had long plagued Washington.
Garfield sought to reform this system by appointing qualified, reform-minded individuals to key positions, signaling a break from party patronage. His assassination by Charles Guiteau, a disgruntled office-seeker, highlighted the dangers of the spoils system and led directly to the passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act in 1883, which Garfield’s efforts had helped set in motion.
7. Supporter of the Gold Standard
Garfield’s economic philosophy was rooted in the belief that the nation’s currency should be backed by gold to ensure long-term stability and investor confidence. He opposed the expansion of paper money or the unrestricted use of silver, arguing that inflationary policies would harm the economy and penalize working-class citizens.
As a congressman, he supported legislation that maintained a stable currency, often clashing with those who favored soft money policies. Although his presidency was short-lived, his stance on the gold standard influenced future monetary debates in the late 19th century.
8. Defender of Congressional Power
Throughout his political career, Garfield championed the role of Congress as the most powerful branch of government. He believed that legislative authority should not be undermined by an overreaching executive branch.
During the Reconstruction era, Garfield often found himself at odds with President Andrew Johnson, who sought to bypass Congress and implement lenient policies toward the former Confederate states.
Garfield argued that Congress should have the final say in matters of national policy, particularly when it came to issues of civil rights and rebuilding the South. His dedication to maintaining the balance of power helped shape legislative debates during his time in office.
9. Expanded Influence of the Republican Party
Garfield played a key role in strengthening and uniting the Republican Party during a period of internal division. By the time of the 1880 Republican National Convention, the party was split between supporters of Ulysses S. Grant and those seeking a new direction.
Garfield emerged as a compromise candidate, securing the presidential nomination despite not actively seeking it. His ability to bridge gaps between the party’s different factions—particularly the Stalwarts and Half-Breeds—was a testament to his diplomatic skills. His nomination reflected his success in making the party more inclusive and forward-looking.
10. Led Naval Modernization Efforts
During his short presidency, Garfield supported initiatives to modernize the U.S. Navy, recognizing the importance of a strong maritime presence for protecting American trade and ensuring national security. The navy had suffered from neglect following the Civil War, with much of its fleet outdated and ill-prepared for future conflicts.
Garfield’s administration laid the groundwork for the development of steel-hulled warships and investment in modern technology, efforts that would be expanded by his successors. His vision for naval modernization demonstrated his understanding of the growing importance of global influence in an industrialized world.