The Sherman Antitrust Act (1890)
The first federal law against monopolies and trusts
US Presidents · 19th century
Benjamin Harrison
1833–1901 · American
Republican
In office: 1889–1893
Benjamin Harrison, an Indiana lawyer, Union officer and grandson of President William Henry Harrison, defeated Grover Cleveland in 1888 despite losing the popular vote. As the 23rd president he signed the Sherman Antitrust Act and the high McKinley Tariff, and admitted six new states. He lost to Cleveland in 1892, so his single term sits between Cleveland's two.
How to spot them
- ▸Grandson of the 9th president, William Henry Harrison
- ▸Served between Grover Cleveland's two terms, beating him in 1888 and losing to him in 1892
- ▸Sherman Antitrust Act and McKinley Tariff (both 1890)
- ▸Six states admitted, including North and South Dakota; electricity installed in the White House
- ▸Nicknamed 'Little Ben' and 'the Human Iceberg'
In office
The McKinley Tariff (1890)
Raised import duties to record levels; named after the future president who drafted it
Admission of six states, including North and South Dakota (1889–1890)
North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Washington, Idaho and Wyoming
Electric lighting installed in the White House (1891)
The family were reportedly wary of touching the switches
Quick-fire facts
- •The 23rd President of the United States
- •Born in North Bend, Ohio; made his career in Indianapolis
- •Won the 1888 election in the electoral college while losing the popular vote to Cleveland
- •Also signed the Sherman Silver Purchase Act (1890)
- •The Wounded Knee Massacre (1890) took place during his presidency
Drill it — 5 cards
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Sources
- Miller Center, University of Virginia — Benjamin Harrison