The Assassination of President William McKinley
On September 6, 1901, President William McKinley was shot by anarchist Leon Czolgosz at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. This tragic event marked a significant moment in U.S. history, leading to the eventual presidency of Theodore Roosevelt and highlighting the era’s political tensions.
Context and Background
William McKinley: The 25th President of the United States, McKinley was serving his second term after being re-elected in 1900. His presidency was marked by economic growth and the Spanish-American War, which resulted in the U.S. gaining territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
Pan-American Exposition: Held in Buffalo, New York, the exposition was a world’s fair intended to showcase technological advancements and foster cultural exchange among the nations of the Americas. It attracted millions of visitors, including President McKinley, who was there to deliver a speech.
Leon Czolgosz: A self-proclaimed anarchist, Czolgosz was influenced by anarchist ideologies and figures like Emma Goldman. He believed that the government was oppressive and sought to make a political statement through his actions.
The Assassination
The Shooting: On September 6, McKinley was greeting the public at the Temple of Music, a pavilion at the exposition. As he extended his hand to Czolgosz, who was in line to meet him, Czolgosz fired two shots from a concealed revolver. One bullet grazed McKinley, while the other lodged in his abdomen.
Immediate Aftermath: McKinley was rushed to the exposition’s hospital, where doctors operated on him. Initially, it seemed he might recover, but his condition worsened due to infection and gangrene.
Consequences and Aftermath
Death of McKinley: Despite initial optimism about his recovery, McKinley succumbed to his injuries on September 14, 1901, eight days after the shooting. His death marked the third assassination of a U.S. president.
Theodore Roosevelt’s Presidency: Vice President Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in as the 26th president following McKinley’s death. Roosevelt’s presidency ushered in the Progressive Era, characterized by significant reforms in business regulation, labor rights, and conservation.
Impact on Anarchism: The assassination intensified public fear and distrust of anarchism, leading to a crackdown on anarchist activities and the passage of laws aimed at curbing radical political movements.
Historical Significance
The assassination of William McKinley underscored the vulnerabilities of public figures to political violence and highlighted the tensions of the era, including the rise of anarchism and the challenges of industrialization. It also set the stage for Roosevelt’s transformative presidency, which would significantly shape early 20th-century America.