William McKinley

Republican 1897--1901 Ohio

Key Facts

Term
1897--1901
Party
Republican
First Lady
Ida McKinley
Home State
Ohio
Born
1843
Died
1901

Biography

McKinley's presidency marked the emergence of the United States as a world power.

Key Events & Accomplishments

  • Led the U.S. through the Spanish-American War (1898)
  • Acquired Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines
  • Annexed Hawaii (1898)
  • Assassinated by Leon Czolgosz (September 14, 1901)

Election Results

YearOpponentElectoral VotePopular Vote
1896William Jennings Bryan271-176+4.3%
1900William Jennings Bryan292-155+6.1%

Notable Quotes

In the time of darkest defeat, victory may be nearest.

Did You Know?

  • McKinley was the first president to ride in an automobile.