Today, it is hard for us to imagine the political process without mass advertising, polls, or the 24-hour news shows. Many Americans were glued to their television sets during the 2000 election and ratings skyrocketed for networks as we waited for a decision on the President. For the people living in 1876, how did they function without receiving a news update ever half hour? How popular was politics over a hundred years ago? How did candidates campaign for office? What did voters expect from their candidates?
The years from 1877 until 1900 are commonly referred to in American History as the Gilded Age. The term implies that while things appear to glitter on the outside, a closer look reveals greed and corruption. Mark Twain coined this term because he was appalled at the rampant corruption in American society. A look into the political process itself provides a prime example of the baseness that existed in the late 19th century. Political office was a way for many to amass personal fortunes. In fact it seemed the political parties were more concerned with the spoils of office rather than the affairs of the country. It is odd however, that during this time the office of president was filled with respectable and honest men. Honest men, but not strong leaders. The names Rutherford Hayes, James Garfield, Chester Arthur, Grover Cleveland, Benjamin Harrison, and William McKinley do not readily spring to mind when discussing great American presidents.
Even though the political process was corrupt at times, politics played a huge role in American society. Politics was a prime form entertainment. During the presidential elections between the years 1876 and 1896 voters turned out in record numbers to participate. It is estimated that between 80 and 90 percent of eligible voters participated in local and national elections. Although only men could vote, political campaigns were events that excited entire communities.* Voting was only the last step in the process. Political campaigns often included picnics, rallies, open-air speeches, and parades. One of the more interesting campaigns took place during the election of 1884. The Republican Party nominated James G. Blaine while the Democratic Party ran Grover Cleveland. Both candidates campaigned on images of honesty and respectability. During the campaign Blaine's image was tarnished when it was revealed that he had used his political influence to obtain favorable financial deals for railroads while taking payment in return. Likewise, Cleveland's respectability came into question when the confirmed bachelor admitted to having fathered an illegitimate son. As a result during political rallies Democrats would chant: "Blaine, Blaine, James G. Blaine continental liar from the state of Maine." Meanwhile, Republicans retorted: "Ma, Ma, Where's my Pa?" Cleveland went on to win this extremely close race and when Republicans shouted, "Ma, Ma, Where's my Pa?" Democrats would answer, "He's gone to the White House, Ha, Ha, Ha!"
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