what was taft known for

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What is President Taft best known for?

What is William Taft most known for? William Taft was selected by President Teddy Roosevelt to be his successor. He is most famous for being the only president to serve on the Supreme Court after leaving office. William grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio.

What major events happened when William Howard Taft was president?

William Taft - Key EventsMarch 4, 1909. Taft inaugurated. ... March 15, 1909. Special session convenes. ... April 6, 1909. Peary reaches the North Pole. ... May 17, 1909. Nellie Taft suffers a stroke. ... June 16, 1909. Taft's first message to Congress. ... July 12, 1909. Calling for the Sixteenth Amendment. ... July 15, 1909. ... August 6, 1909.More items...

What was unique about William Taft?

Taft was the only president to ever serve as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, making him the only person to ever hold a position in both the Executive and Judicial branches of the United States government. Taft considered his time as Chief Justice to be the highest point of his career.

What did Taft do that was progressive?

Two of the major progressive achievements under President Taft were constitutional amendments. The Sixteenth Amendment was passed in 1909 and ratified in 1913. It gave Congress the power to create income taxes. The Constitution pre- viously did not allow direct taxes on an individual's income.

How did Taft differ from Roosevelt?

Taft was in favor of lower tariffs while TR wanted higher tariffs. Roosevelt was in favor of a national income tax, but Taft did not like the idea. It was the rift between Roosevelt and Taft that led to a schism in the Republican Party. This led to the victory of the Democrat Wilson in the 1912 Presidential election.

What reforms did William Taft do?

Among the significant pieces of legislation passed by Congress during Taft's presidency was the Mann-Elkins Act of 1910, empowering the Interstate Commerce Commission to suspend railroad rate hikes and to set rates. The act also expanded the ICC's jurisdiction to cover telephones, telegraphs, and radio.

What did Taft do for civil rights?

Instead, Taft's one and only contribution to civil rights as president was publicly supporting Washington's theory on race relations and the advancement of African Americans.

What were Taft's political beliefs?

He believed that independence could only come to the undeveloped nation after a long period of U.S. tutelage and protection. As secretary of war, Taft became Roosevelt's chief emissary and confidant, assisting him in the Portsmouth Peace negotiations, and in establishing a protectorate in Cuba.

Was William Taft a good president?

An indecisive leader, William Howard Taft was an ineffective president, especially when compared to the impressive administrations of Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson.

Did Taft claim to be a progressive?

It was generally expected that Taft would be Roosevelt's man in the White House, and Taft himself vowed to continue Roosevelt's progressive policies.

What action did Taft make that ruined his reputation as a progressive?

People with higher incomes were required to pay more taxes. What action did Taft make that ruined his reputation as a progressive? He signed a bill that increased tariffs.

What was Taft's political career?

Early political career. The son of Alphonso Taft, secretary of war and attorney general (1876–77 ) under Pres. Ulysses S. Grant, and Louisa Maria Torrey, Taft graduated second in his Yale class of 1878, studied law, and was admitted to the Ohio bar in 1880. Drawn to politics in the Republican Party, he served in several minor appointive offices ...

Why was Taft so disappointed with the Progressives?

However, progressives soon found abundant reason to be disappointed with Taft. Temperamentally, he lacked Roosevelt’s compelling leadership qualities, which had inspired people to charge into battle against all that was wrong in American society. Politically, Taft offended progressives when he failed to appoint any from their ranks to his cabinet. He further angered progressives when he backed the Payne-Aldrich Tariff of 1909, a highly protectionist measure that ironically was the product of a special session of Congress called (by Taft) to revise tariff rates downward. Progressives, who favoured lower tariffs, expected a veto. When Taft not only signed the tariff but called it “the best bill that the party has ever passed,” the rupture in Republican ranks seemed unlikely to be mended.

What was the Payne Aldrich Tariff?

He further angered progressives when he backed the Payne-Aldrich Tariff of 1909, a highly protectionist measure that ironically was the product of a special session of Congress called (by Taft) to revise tariff rates downward. Progressives, who favoured lower tariffs, expected a veto.

What is an encyclopedia editor?

Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. ...

Where was William Howard Taft's family cottage?

William Howard Taft with his son Charles at the family cottage in Beverly, Mass. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. Taft's tariff support. “Saved,” cartoon by W.A. Rogers for the New York Herald, depicting William Howard Taft's support for the Payne-Aldrich Tariff, 1909.

Who said "Cheer up I might have won"?

Cartoon depicting William Howard Taft and Theodore Roosevelt lying exhausted after the 1912 presidential campaign and saying, “Cheer up! I might have won.”. Library of Congress, Washington, D.C. As president, Taft frequently claimed that “politics makes me sick.”.

Who was the host of the Philippine government in 1905?

William Howard Taft (seated centre right, in white) with Alice Roosevelt (seated centre left, with hat) as guests of the Philippine government, 1905. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. Although dissimilar in both physique and temperament, the rotund, easygoing Taft and the muscular, almost-manic Roosevelt nonetheless became close friends;

What did Taft do in the 1890s?

He supported the right of labor to organize and strike, and he ruled against employers in several negligence cases." Among these was Voight v. Baltimore & Ohio Southwestern Railway Co. Taft's decision for a worker injured in a railway accident violated the contemporary doctrine of liberty of contract, and he was reversed by the Supreme Court. On the other hand, Taft's opinion in United States v. Addyston Pipe and Steel Co. was upheld unanimously by the high court. Taft's opinion, in which he held that a pipe manufacturers' association had violated the Sherman Antitrust Act, was described by Henry Pringle, his biographer, as having "definitely and specifically revived" that legislation.

What was Taft's secret society?

He was elected a member of Skull and Bones, the Yale secret society co-founded by his father, one of three future presidents (with George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush) to be a member. In 1878, Taft graduated second in his class of 121. He attended Cincinnati Law School, and graduated with a Bachelor of Laws in 1880.

What did William Taft do as a child?

William Taft was not seen as brilliant as a child, but was a hard worker ; his demanding parents pushed him and his four brothers toward success, tolerating nothing less. He attended Woodward High School in Cincinnati. At Yale College, which he entered in 1874, the heavyset, jovial Taft was popular and an intramural heavyweight wrestling champion. One classmate said he succeeded through hard work rather than by being the smartest, and had integrity. He was elected a member of Skull and Bones, the Yale secret society co-founded by his father, one of three future presidents (with George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush) to be a member. In 1878, Taft graduated second in his class of 121. He attended Cincinnati Law School, and graduated with a Bachelor of Laws in 1880. While in law school, he worked on The Cincinnati Commercial newspaper, edited by Murat Halstead. Taft was assigned to cover the local courts, and also spent time reading law in his father's office; both activities gave him practical knowledge of the law that was not taught in class. Shortly before graduating from law school, Taft went to Columbus to take the bar examination and easily passed.

What is the evolution of a smile?

One of a series of candid photographs known as the Evolution of a Smile, taken just after a formal portrait session, as Taft learns by telephone from Roosevelt of his nomination for president.

How tall was Taft?

Taft is remembered as the heaviest president; he was 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 m) tall and his weight peaked at 335–340 pounds (152–154 kg) toward the end of his presidency, although this later decreased, and by 1929 he weighed just 244 pounds (111 kg). By the time Taft became chief justice, his health was starting to decline, and he carefully planned a fitness regimen, walking 3 miles (4.8 km) from his home to the Capitol each day. When he walked home after work, he would usually go by way of Connecticut Avenue and use a particular crossing over Rock Creek. After his death, the crossing was named the Taft Bridge.

How did the Supreme Court overturn the child labor law?

Congress thereafter attempted to end child labor by imposing a tax on certain corporations making use of it. That law was overturned by the Supreme Court in 1922 in Bailey v. Drexel Furniture Co., with Taft writing the court's opinion for an 8–1 majority. He held that the tax was not intended to raise revenue, but rather was an attempt to regulate matters reserved to the states under the Tenth Amendment, and that allowing such taxation would eliminate the power of the states. One case in which Taft and his court upheld federal regulation was Stafford v. Wallace. Taft ruled for a 7–1 majority that the processing of animals in stockyards was so closely tied to interstate commerce as to bring it within the ambit of Congress's power to regulate.

When did Taft die?

He died at his home in Washington D.C. on March 8, 1930 at age 72. Taft lay in state at the United States Capitol rotunda.

Twenty-Seventh President of the United States

Martin Kelly, M.A., is a history teacher and curriculum developer. He is the author of "The Everything American Presidents Book" and "Colonial Life: Government."

William Howard Taft Quote

"The diplomacy of the present administration has sought to respond to modern ideas of commercial intercourse. This policy has been characterized as substituting dollars for bullets. It is one that appeals alike to idealistic humanitarian sentiments, to the dictates of sound policy and strategy, and to legitimate commercial aims."

Related William Howard Taft Resources

These additional resources on William Howard Taft can provide you with further information about the president and his times.

Why did Taft's wife crash the DNC?

Taft’s Wife Crashed the 1912 DNC to Shield Him from Ridicule. It’s hard to demean someone whose spouse is sitting right in front of you. After her husband won the Republican presidential nomination, First Lady Helen Herron “Nellie” Taft made a beeline for the Democratic National Convention in Baltimore.

What was the Supreme Court ruling before 1935?

Before 1935, the Supreme Court issued its rulings from various rooms inside the Capitol. Chief Justice Taft changed all that, successfully lobbying Congress to give the Court its own separate building at a cost of $10 million. 14. Taft Recently Became One of the Washington Nationals’ Racing Mascots.

What are Taft's nicknames?

7. His Nicknames Included “Big Bill” and “Big Lub.”. For the record, Nellie called him “Sleeping Beauty” due to Taft’s bad habit of dozing off at parties (more on that later). 8. Taft Swore in Two Other Presidents.

What are some interesting facts about William Howard Taft?

1. He Was the Last President to Rock Facial Hair While in Office. Between the Lincoln and Taft administrations, all but two commanders-in-chief boasted some sort of face fuzz. ...

Did President Taft sleep?

“Most of the time,” admitted Indiana Senator James Watson, “ [Taft] simply did not and could not function in alert fashion… Often while I was talking to him after a meal, his head would fall over on his breast and he would go sound asleep for 10 or 15 minutes. He would waken and resume the conversation, only to repeat the performance in the course of half an hour or so.” President Taft was also seen snoozing at operas, funerals, and—especially—church services.

When did Taft become Chief Justice?

Upon becoming Chief Justice in 1921, he happily declared “I don’t remember that I was ever president.”

When did the 27th president leave the White House?

But since our 27th president left the White House in 1913, clean-shaven candidates have monopolized the job.

How did Esty change the day at Taft?

Esty also changed daily life at Taft. The Sunday schedule was loosened considerably, allowing boys to sleep in and to attend the church of their choice in the afternoon. Where Vespers under Horace Taft and Paul Cruikshank had been a formal function with only the head of school, the most senior faculty, or a guest speaker presiding, Sunday Vespers was eliminated, and the weekday Vespers format was opened to students, faculty, and outside presenters.

What does Taft coach do?

In building one of the most successful athletic programs in New England, Taft coaches promote fair play, respect for opponents, a love of the game, competitive spirit, and team loyalty. Taft is a school with heart. Our sense of community is strong, and extends to every aspect of campus life.

How was Taft built?

Taft has been built, brick by brick, through the collective generosity of generations of alumni, parents, families, and friends.

Why did Taft institute the monitorial system?

In the first years in Watertown, Mr. Taft instituted the monitorial system as a way of teaching responsibility and introducing student self-governance. He also began having "Sunday supper" in his apartment, and encouraging informal gatherings in individual boys' rooms, to discuss anything from "European politics to the last unpopular rule adopted by faculty." Students played football and baseball games against schools like the Gunnery and Hopkins Grammar, while music, drama, literary, and other club activities provided outlets for other talents, and an alternative context for student-faculty interaction.

How old was the ark in Watertown?

Horace and Winnie immediately traveled to Watertown, where they spent a frigid day inspecting the 30-year-old Victorian ark. It was, in Taft's words, "a forsaken place." Still, Horace and Winnie decided to lease the building and its six acres with an option to purchase the property in five years. And with a $10,000 loan, they set about refurbishing the great old building.

What is success in the arts?

Success in the Arts is bred of self-confidence; a fearlessness or joy in the process, more than the outcome. Taft School Portrait of an Arts Graduate

Where is the Warren House?

The Warren House, a 'languishing hotel' in Watertown, CT, became the new home of The Taft School in 1893. The entire school community, students and faculty alike, on the steps of the Warren House in 1893. Horace Dutton Taft, himself, is in center of the back row. Educating the Whole Boy.

Where did Taft live?

The New York Times recorded President Taft's visits to his ancestral homes in Mendon and Uxbridge during his Presidency. William Howard Taft, as a young boy, spent a number of summers in the Blackstone Valley in Millbury, Massachusetts, and even attended schools for at least a term in that nearby town.

Where did Robert Taft come from?

Robert Taft Sr. ( c. 1640–1725); The famous Taft family in America developed its roots in Mendon and Uxbridge. Robert Taft, Sr came to America from Braintree. The original American Taft homestead was in western Mendon, which later became Uxbridge, and was built by Robert Taft Sr., the first immigrant, in 1681.

Where were the Tafts in the Revolutionary War?

The Tafts were very prominently represented as soldiers in the Revolutionary War, mostly in the New England states . Peter Rawson Taft I was born in Uxbridge in 1785 and moved to Townshend, Vermont circa 1800. He became a Vermont state legislator. He died in Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio.

Where was Rivulet Mill located?

The 1814 Rivulet Mill Complex was established at North Uxbridge by Chandler Taft. In 1855, 2.5 million yards of cloth was produced in the mills of Uxbridge. Uxbridge is the center of the Blackstone Valley, the earliest industrialized region in the United States.

Where did Alphonso Taft die?

He died in Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio. His son, Alphonso Taft, was born in Townshend, Vermont, and attended Yale University, where he founded the Skull and Bones society. He later was Secretary of War and Attorney General of the United States and the father of President William Howard Taft.

Who was Lydia Chapin Taft?

Lydia Chapin Taft; Noteworthy among early Uxbridge residents was Lydia Chapin Taft, a Mendon na tive by birth, who voted in three official Uxbridge town meetings, beginning in 1756. She was the widow of Robert Taft Sr.'s grandson, Josiah Taft, who had served in the Colonial Legislature. Josiah was the son of Daniel Taft of Mendon. Taft was America's First Woman Voter. This is recognized by the Massachusetts legislature. Her first historic vote, a first in Women's suffrage, was in favor of appropriating funds for the regiments engaged in the French and Indian War.

Who was Taft's grandfather?

President William Howard Taft 's grandfather, Peter Rawson Taft I , was born in Uxbridge in 1785. The Hon. Bezaleel Taft Sr., Lydia's son, left a legacy of five generations or more of public service, including at least three generations in the state legislature of Tafts in Massachusetts.

Why did Nellie Taft attend the Republican National Convention?

She took a front-row seat at the latter in order to deter speakers' criticism of her husband. After losing the election, the Tafts returned to Cincinnati, where William began teaching law. Nellie Taft wrote her memoir, Recollections of Full Years, which was published in 1914. During the Great War, she provided support for the American Red Cross .

How many cherry trees did Nellie Taft plant?

In her most lasting contribution as First Lady, Nellie Taft arranged for the planting of the 3,020 Japanese cherry trees around the Tidal Basin and on Capitol grounds; with Viscountess Iwa Chinda (the wife of the Japanese ambassador ), she personally planted the first two saplings in ceremonies on March 27, 1912.

What happened to Nellie Taft?

In May 1909, Nellie Taft suffered a stroke, impairing her speech, right arm and leg.

What did Nellie Taft do during the Great War?

During the Great War, she provided support for the American Red Cross . With Taft's appointment to the Supreme Court in 1921, Nellie Taft became the only woman to be both First Lady and wife of a chief justice. She resumed her social activities after returning to Washington D.C.

How many children did the Tafts have?

The Tafts had two sons and a daughter. Robert A. Taft (1889–1953) was a politician and statesman, Helen Taft Manning (1891–1987) was an educator, and Charles Phelps Taft II (1897–1983) was a civic leader.

Where did Nellie Taft and her husband honeymoon?

The couple honeymooned one day in New York City and four days at Sea Bright, New Jersey, before setting off on a three-month tour of Europe. On their return, they settled in Cincinnati. Nellie Taft encouraged her husband's political career despite his often-stated preference for the judiciary.

When was Nellie Taft widowed?

Nellie Taft was widowed on March 8, 1930, and stayed in the city of Washington. She continued to be socially involved serving as an honorary vice president of the Colonial Dames of America and the Girl Scouts of the USA.

Overview

Early life and education

Rise in government (1880–1908)

Presidential election of 1908

Presidency (1909–1913)

Return to Yale (1913–1921)

Chief Justice (1921–1930)

Declining health and death