Samuel J. Tilden (New York) was an ex-Governor and Democratic presidential candidate in the 1876 elections. Rutherford B. Hayes (Ohio) was a member of Congress, ex-governor and Republican nominee in the presidential elections of 1876. The Senate was under Republican control; the house was controlled by Democrats.

Then came the election, with claims of fraud on both sides. Hayes was behind by about 20 electoral votes, but was expected to win two of the remaining 'up for grabs' states. Florida would give the election to Tilden. Still, the party refused to admit defeat.

What happened next was to have a lasting affect on the south and the country.