DemocratVice President · New York
Chester A. Arthur"Elegant Arthur"
1881 first electedLeft office 1881Born 1829 in Fairfield, VermontDied 1886
Biography
Chester Alan Arthur (1829–1886) was the 21st President of the United States, serving from 1881 to 1885. He came up through New York's political patronage system, serving as Collector of the Port of New York — a powerful position tied to the corrupt spoils system — before being tapped as running mate for James Garfield in 1880 to balance the ticket. He became president when Garfield was assassinated just months into his term, in a shooting carried out by a disgruntled office-seeker angry over being denied a political appointment. Surprising many who expected him to continue business as usual, Arthur underwent something of a political transformation in office, championing and signing the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883, which began replacing the patronage system with a merit-based civil service. He did not seek re-election in 1884, in part due to declining health.
Additional Info
Spouse
Ellen Herndon (m. 1859; died 1880)
Prior Offices
Chair of the New York Republican Party, 21st Collector of the Port of New York
Fun Fact
Arthur was diagnosed with a serious kidney disease (Bright's disease) shortly after becoming president but kept the diagnosis largely secret from the public throughout his term, quietly knowing his time was limited even as he governed. He also was known for his sartorial flair, reportedly owning around 80 pairs of trousers and earning a reputation as one of the best-dressed presidents in history.
Election History
No election records found in the database yet.