Stalwarts (politics)

The Stalwarts were a faction of the Republican Party that existed in the United States during the late 19th century (Gilded Age). They were known for their staunch support of Ulysses S. Grant during his presidency and for their belief in political machines and the spoils system.

The Stalwarts generally opposed civil service reform efforts, advocating for maintaining the traditional practice of patronage, where government jobs were awarded based on political loyalty and support, rather than merit. They believed that this system was crucial for maintaining party strength and rewarding faithful party members.

Key figures associated with the Stalwart faction included Roscoe Conkling, a powerful New York Senator, and Ulysses S. Grant himself. Their opponents, who advocated for civil service reform, were often referred to as "Half-Breeds." The bitter rivalry between these two factions significantly influenced Republican Party politics during this period. The assassination of President James A. Garfield, who was sympathetic to civil service reform, by a disgruntled office seeker contributed to a shift in public opinion and ultimately paved the way for the passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act in 1883, marking a decline in the influence of the Stalwarts. The term "Stalwart" evokes a sense of unyielding loyalty and adherence to traditional party principles and practices.