Chester Alan Arthur (1829-1886) was an American lawyer and politician who served as the 21st President of the United States from 1881 to 1885. He was born in Fairfield, Vermont and studied law before embarking on a career in politics.
Arthur began his political career in the Republican Party and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the Collector of the Port of New York in 1871. He gained a reputation for his efficient, yet controversial, handling of the customs office.
In 1880, he was chosen as the Republican Vice Presidential nominee to accompany James Garfield. However, tragically, Garfield was assassinated in 1881, and Arthur assumed the presidency.
During his presidency, Arthur advocated for civil service reform, seeking to eliminate political patronage and improve the efficiency of the government. He signed the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act, which established a merit-based system for government appointments.
Arthur also focused on modernizing the navy, expanding international trade, and reducing tariffs. He was known for his elegant lifestyle and fashionable taste, which contrasted with the expectation of a stereotypical politician of his era.
Despite initial doubts about his ability to lead, Arthur's presidency is often seen as surprising and successful. He managed to reconcile factions within the Republican Party and left a positive legacy in terms of civil service reform. Chester Alan Arthur died of a kidney ailment in 1886.
