United States
On November 18, 1886, former President Chester A. Arthur died at his home in New York City. Arthur had become the 21st president in 1881 after the assassination of James A. Garfield. Initially viewed as a party machine politician, he surprised critics by backing civil service reform, including signing the Pendleton Act. His administration also worked on modernizing the U.S. Navy and addressed tariff and immigration questions. After leaving office, Arthur’s health declined due to Bright’s disease. His death led commentators to reassess his presidency as more independent and reform-minded than many had expected.
