Note: This is Part 2. Part 1 (Washington to Lincoln) is here.

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Last year, an article titled The American Presidents—Washington to Lincoln was published.

Washington to Lincoln were prominent figures, along with legends like Adams, Jefferson, Madison, and Jackson. They witnessed the birth of the constitution, the expansion from 13 East Coast colonies to a vast nation reaching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, engaged in two foreign wars, and faced a rigorous debate on slavery. This era culminated in the intense conflicts of the Civil War and the eventual abolition of slavery. While not everyone may find this captivating, the headline would surely draw attention on social media platforms.

This time around, a different approach has been taken. A headline that is perhaps one of the least enticing in Internet history has been crafted.

Now, let’s delve deeper into the lesser-known group of eight consecutive presidents from Andrew Johnson to William McKinley, which may pique the interest of those fascinated by obscure historical trivia.

During this period, which spans 36 years from the end of the Civil War to the early 20th Century, known as The Gilded Age, the political landscape shifted into what historians term The Third Party System marked by a distinct divide between Republicans and Democrats, albeit different from their present-day counterparts.

The Gilded Age Republicans, predominantly from the victorious North in the Civil War, dominated the era, illustrating a significant departure from the political chaos of the preceding presidencies.

As per historical rankings by scholars, none of the eight presidents covered in this article managed to break into the top 18 positions.

Before delving into the profiles of these presidents, it is important to grasp the context of the era, characterized by shifting party dynamics and significant social challenges.

Andrew Johnson

Presidency: 1865 – 1869 Lived: 1808 – 1875 Ranking: 41/43

Mustache? No.

His Background: Johnson’s humble beginnings in North Carolina, raised by a single mother, and his journey from being a tailor’s apprentice to ascending various political offices culminated in his presidency. However, his tenure ended in disgrace, marked by his clash with the Republican Congress over post-Civil War Reconstruction efforts.

His Presidency: Johnson, who assumed office after Lincoln’s assassination, steered the nation during a critical period post-Civil War. However, his disagreements with the Republican agenda hindered progress, leading to his impeachment in 1868, although he narrowly avoided removal from office.

Johnson’s presidency, often likened to Buchanan’s, stands as one of the most tumultuous and controversial.

Highlights:

• Becoming the only president to serve in the Senate after his tenure.
• Instrumental in the acquisition of Alaska from Russia.

Low Points:

• Expressions of white supremacist views.
• Notorious for showing up heavily intoxicated at his inauguration.
• Possibly fathered children with one of his slaves.

Interesting Facts:

• Continued to craft his own clothing even during his presidency.
• Striking resemblance to Tommy Lee Jones.

Johnson’s presidency encapsulates a turbulent chapter in American history, defined by political discord and personal controversies that have left a lasting mark on his legacy.

Last Words: Following a stroke, Johnson’s final words reflected his resilient spirit despite his physical ailment.

Next (Ulysses S. Grant) →

All Pages:

Andrew Johnson (and Intro)
Ulysses S. Grant
Rutherford B. Hayes
James A. Garfield
Chester A. Arthur
Grover Cleveland
Benjamin Harrison
William McKinley