Warren G. Harding
Many people ask which president said, “I am not fit for this office and should never have been here.”? Then the answer to that question without any doubt is Warren G. Harding(1865-1923). In this article, we will talk about some of the most lesser-known and exciting facts about Warren Harding. He led a fascinating life despite the short presidential span he had. He was the 29th president of the United States from March 4, 1921, to August 2, 1923. His career and life ended when he had a heart attack after two years as the president. Vice-president Calvin Coolidge became the elected president in 1924. Let’s see what other interesting facts are about him.
Interesting Facts That Most of Us Don’t Know About President Warren G. Harding.
-
He was a Newspaper Reporter Before He Started His Career as a Politician
On November 2, 1865, he was born in Blooming Grove, Ohio, to a family of farmers. He one the eldest of the eight kids his parents had. Despite coming from a farming background, he was interested in journalism and writing. When he was a college student, he would work for various newspapers like Marion Mirror, the newspaper that was Democratic in views, which was in contrast to the Republican political views. Then things got interesting when a rival newspaper – Marion Daily Star, was up for purchase. Harding soon started running after his friends financed its acquisition. He saw that occupation fitting with his interests. With his talent in journalism, he was already famous in his community. His name started getting popular in local and eventually national politics. Despite his entry into the White House, he never stopped looking after the newspaper until his abrupt demise in 1923
-
Harding Would Get Aggressive Often
Although Harding was known for his even-keeled temperament during his entire political life, that should not make you think that he was a doormat. Getting personally targeted by rivals and critics is not new if your life revolves around politics and journalism. When he was editor of Star, he would often get personally targeted by the Independent’s editor. There came a time when he had had enough of his attacks. He even told him that he would “mop up the street” with him if he continued to attack him.
-
Harding Was Chosen for Nomination Due to a Compromise
Before becoming lieutenant governor of Ohio from 1904 to 1906, he was elected to the Ohio State Senate in 1899. He was a senator from 1915 to 1921. He was popular and well-liked among voters and other politicians of his party, but his nomination resulted from a compromise. Republican Party wasn’t sure on which candidate to nominate. He and his running mate Coolidge defeated James Cox with a massive 60% popular vote and 76% Electoral College vote. His victory is considered as an example of the largest popular vote margin since the 1820s.
-
Harding Was Endorsed by Celebrities When He Was Running for the Office
It is common to see celebrities endorsing their liking’s political candidates, but Harding is perhaps the first president to have been approved by celebrities. His campaign was supported by Al Jolson, who was a popular performer from the 1920s. He was a Republican, and he promised to visit Marion, Ohio. Harding was making speeches from his front porch and leading parades down the block for campaigning. He also received support from actors like Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks.
-
His Presidency Was Known for a Scandal
Harding himself was never indicted for involvement in any scandal, but his cabinet was. His Secretary of the Interior Albert Fall was known for involvement in the Teapot Dome Scandal, where he was found to have leased public land to oil companies in return for some ‘gifts.’ He also went to jail for this scandal. Meanwhile, AG Harry Daugherty was found guilty of selling liquor permits during the Prohibition time.
Final Words
We hope that you have gotten the answer to which the president said, “I am not fit for this office and should never have been here.”? Harding led a fascinating life despite a short presidential career that ended with his abrupt departure. If you know any more interesting facts about him, let us know in the comments. If you want to read more exciting content, please, follow us.