Infamous Assassinations: Profiles 1901-1948

William McKinley

Who was he? The 25th President of the United States.

When was he assassinated? September 6, 1901.

Where was he assassinated? Buffalo, New York.

Who did it? Leon Czolgosz, an anarchist.

Why? McKinley was a popular president, whose term in office coincided with an economic boom. But the gap between rich and poor was growing, angering radical socialists and anarchists.

What happened? McKinley was visiting the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo. Czolgosz joined a line of guests holding a pistol covered with a handkerchief. When the president approached, Czolgosz shot him twice, fatally wounding him.

What was the consequence? Following McKinley's assassination, the Secret Service began guarding U.S. presidents at all times. Czolgosz was convicted of murder and executed.