John Tyler
John Tyler became president only after the death of President William Henry Harrison. Tyler was the 10th president and served for four years from 1841 to 1845. The election of John Tyler was very unique because he actually hadn’t been elected, but rather took over after the standing president had passed away. He earned himself the nickname “His Accidency”, and was almost impeached, though the attempt fell through. This was in fact the first attempt of an impeachment in history. He made many enemies in Congress by claiming he wouldn’t be a “passive” replacement president. Known for his strong opinions in general, this was also the case regarding slavery, and his support for the States making their own decision in the matter. Although don’t get us wrong, he did great for the country as well…he was responsible for brokering treaties with both China and Britain. Fun fact: he had the most children out of any presidents ever: 15 to be exact.
John Tyler
William Henry Harrison
Imagine being president and your term being known as a tragedy? That was unfortunately the case with the 9th president of the U.S., William Henry Harrison. Harrison actually died in the Presidential office, being the record-holder for the shortest term in office…a mere 31 days. Many claim that he died from catching pneumonia after his inauguration which happened to be on a very rainy and brisk day. William rode on horseback, refusing to wear a warm jacket and then proceeded to give a 2-hour speech in the nasty weather. Harrison is also known as “Old Tippecanoe” for leading the US troops to victory in the 1811 Battle of Tippecanoe. Can you believe Harrison was the first sitting president to be photographed? Too bad it was lost over the years. The Harrison lineage is actually very strong with William’s father being Benjamin Harrison, a founding father, and his grandson, with the same name, going on to become the 23rd president.
William Henry Harrison