What was the outcome of the election of 1876?

The outcome of the election of 1876 is best encapsulated by the assertion that Hayes was declared the winner despite fewer popular votes. This election was one of the most contentious in American history, marked by significant disputes over electoral votes in several states. Republican candidate Rutherford B. Hayes and Democratic candidate Samuel J. Tilden both claimed victory based on the highly divided and disputed returns.

Despite Tilden winning the popular vote, the unique circumstances surrounding the electoral votes led to Hayes being awarded the presidency. A special electoral commission was formed to resolve the conflicts, and through a combination of political negotiations and a compromise that saw federal troops withdrawn from the South, Hayes was able to secure the necessary electoral votes to win the presidency. This illustrates the significance of the Electoral College system, where winning the presidency can occur without winning the popular vote, highlighting the complexities and sometimes contentious nature of electoral politics in the United States.