10 fun and interesting Benjamin Harrison facts

1. 23rd President, Benjamin Harrison, Born in Ohio

On August 20, 1833, Benjamin Harrison was born in North Bend, Ohio, a small town located on the banks of the Ohio River. He would go on to become the 23rd President of the United States, serving from 1889 to 1893. After his term ended, Harrison returned to his home in Indiana, where he passed away on March 13, 1901. His legacy lives on in the form of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, a museum dedicated to his life and accomplishments.

Also → William Henry Harrison: The First President Born in the United States

2. The 23rd President of the United States

Benjamin Harrison was a unique figure in American history, being the only person to be the grandson of another president - William Henry Harrison - and the only U.S. president from Indiana. His grandfather, William Henry Harrison, was the ninth president of the United States, serving from 1841 until his death in 1841. Benjamin Harrison was born in North Bend, Ohio in 1833 and served as the 23rd president of the United States from 1889 to 1893. He was a prominent lawyer and politician, and was a major force in the Republican Party during the late 19th century.

Also → Crown Hill Cemetery: Home to Presidents, Poets, and More

3. A Brigadier General Who Led the Union to Victory

During the American Civil War, Benjamin Harrison served as a brigadier general in the Union Army of the Cumberland. He was a key figure in the Union's victory, leading his troops in several major battles and helping to secure the Union's control of the Cumberland region. His leadership and bravery earned him the respect of his fellow soldiers and the admiration of his superiors.

Also → John Tyler: 10th US President (1790)

4. Benjamin Harrison Succeeds Despite Failed Governor Bid

After the Civil War, Benjamin Harrison sought to further his political career by running for the governorship of Indiana, though he was ultimately unsuccessful. Undeterred, he was later chosen to the U.S. Senate by the Indiana legislature, a testament to his dedication and commitment to public service.

Also → Seven Presidents of the United States were born in Ohio

5. 23rd President of the United States: Benjamin Harrison

In 1888, Benjamin Harrison, a Republican, was elected President of the United States, narrowly defeating his Democratic opponent Grover Cleveland. This was a significant victory for the Republican Party, as it marked the first time since the Civil War that a Republican had been elected to the White House. Harrison's victory was a close one, with the popular vote being split almost evenly between the two candidates. Ultimately, Harrison won the Electoral College vote 233 to 168, securing his place in history as the 23rd President of the United States.

Also → Rutherford Birchard Hayes: 19th President of the United States

6. Benjamin Harrison's Legacy: Passed 1 Billion Dollar Federal Budget

Benjamin Harrison is remembered for his impressive financial management, which included the passage of the McKinley Tariff and the Sherman Antitrust Act. His legacy is further cemented by the fact that he was the first president to pass a federal budget of over 1 billion dollars in a single year. His fiscal policies have had a lasting impact on the American economy and continue to be studied and discussed today.

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7. Benjamin Harrison's Unwavering Commitment to Civil Rights

Benjamin Harrison was a strong advocate for civil rights, pushing for federal education funding and legislation to protect African American voting rights. Despite his efforts, his attempts to pass such legislation were largely unsuccessful. Nevertheless, Harrison's commitment to civil rights was unwavering, and he remains an important figure in the history of the civil rights movement.

Also → 22nd and 24th President of the United States: Stephen Grover Cleveland

8. Benjamin Harrison Returns to His Hometown After Losing Election

After losing the 1892 re-election to Grover Cleveland, Benjamin Harrison returned to his hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana, where he had lived for most of his life. He resumed his law practice and became a prominent figure in the city, serving as a trustee of Purdue University and as president of the local chamber of commerce. He also remained active in politics, giving speeches and attending Republican Party events.

Also → 18th President Ulysses S. Grant Was Born on April 27

9. 23rd President, Benjamin Harrison, Dies of Influenza at 67

On March 13, 1901, Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd President of the United States, passed away at the age of 67 due to complications from influenza. He was laid to rest in the Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis, Indiana, where his grave is marked with a granite monument and a bronze statue of him.

10. Benjamin Harrison Honored with Stamps, Statue, and Fort

Benjamin Harrison was a highly esteemed leader, remembered for his accomplishments in the military, as a U.S. Senator, and as President. To commemorate his legacy, several honors have been bestowed upon him, including postage stamps, a Liberty Ship named the SS Benjamin Harrison, Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indiana, and a memorial statue in Indianapolis. These honors serve as a reminder of Harrison's lasting impact on the nation.