2. Presidency of Warren G. Harding (1921 - 1923)

Overview of Harding's Presidency

Harding's Presidency was overshadowed by scandals and criminal activities by some of his Cabinet members and other government officials (although Harding himself was not involved in any wrongdoing). As President, he favored pro-business policies and limited immigration. He was President for only 2 years, dying of an apparent heart attack in 1923.

Teapot Dome Scandal

Harding's Secretary of the Interior (Albert Fall) rented public lands to oil companies in exchange for gifts and personal loans. This was the most famous scandal occurring during Harding's presidency but other government officials of this time also took payoffs and embezzled government funds. Harding's reputation greatly tarnished when these scandals came to light.

Harding's Pro-Business Policies

Under Harding, (1) taxes were reduced especially for corporations and the wealthy (2) high protective tariffs were enacted to help promote the success of American businesses.