McKinley Was a Game Changer, But His Tariffs Weren't.

The article focuses on the renewed interest in President William McKinley’s legacy, particularly regarding his economic policies and use of tariffs during his administration in the late 19th century. McKinley is credited by some scholars and political figures, including former President Donald Trump, with fostering economic recovery and growth after the 1890s depression, largely through tariff legislation and fiscal management. However, the article notes that tariffs were consistently high throughout the 19th century and that McKinley’s tariff policies did not drastically alter the overall economic or fiscal landscape. While tariffs once constituted a significant portion of federal revenue, their importance has greatly diminished since the early 20th century, and their broader economic impact remains debated among experts.