As a lawyer in Buffalo, New York, Grover Cleveland became notable for his single-minded concentration upon whatever task faced him. At the age of 44 he suddenly emerged into a political prominence that carried him to the White House in less than four years. In 1881 he was elected as a reform Mayor of Buffalo, and a year later, reform Governor of New York, in both positions distinguishing himself by his frequent use of the veto to curb political favoritism and corruption.

As President, Cleveland had the courage to say "No." He said it often -- to farmers who sought money to pay their debts, to manufacturers who wanted high protective tariffs, and to veterans who wanted bigger pensions. Those "No's" made Cleveland unpopular in his time, but earned him a respected place in American history.

March 18, 1837		Born in Caldwell, New Jersey.
1859		Admitted to the bar.
1862		Served as Ward Supervisor in Buffalo, New York.
1870		Elected Sheriff of Erie County.
1881		Elected Mayor of Buffalo.
1882		Elected Governor of New York.
1884		Elected President of the United States.
June 2, 1886		Married Frances Folsom.
1888		Defeated for re-election by Benjamin Harrison.
1889		Moved to New York City and resumed law practice.
1892		Elected to another term as President.
June 24, 1908		Died in Princeton, New Jersey.

World Book Encyclopedia. Chicago:World Book-Childcraft International, Inc., 1979.

Frances Folsom Cleveland

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This page was last updated on 10/17/2011.