How Trump Embraces McKinley's Tariff Strategy for a New Golden Age

Why Trump is Reviving the Tariff Era and What it Means for You

Who is William McKinley and why does Trump keep mentioning him so much?

What can we learn from the economic policies of the past?

Can the vision of a leader like William McKinley still influence modern America and lead us to a “Golden Age” as Trump has suggested?

What will Trump’s tariffs mean for you?

Trump has been talking a lot recently about his tariff plan and former President William McKinley.

And last week, the news was buzzing with how he used the threat of tariffs to pressure Mexico and Canada into complying with his border security and fentanyl demands.

It didn’t take long—just one threat, and they caved. Watching it all unfold got me thinking about tariffs and their impact and power.

Just within days, Trump has used the power of tariffs to strengthen America’s border and stop the flood of deadly fentanyl. Pretty amazing if you think about it.

Promises made. Promises kept.

But honestly, I have to admit, I didn’t know much about William McKinley.

The name sounded familiar every time Trump brought it up, but not much else rang a bell for me. I was kind of a history buff in grade school. I even won an award for American History when I was in the eighth grade, but I don’t think we ever talked about McKinley.

And last Sunday, 60 Minutes featured an interview with Robert Lighthizer, who served as the U.S. Trade Representative during President Trump's first term and continues to be an informal advisor.

Lighthizer, who also advised President Reagan, discussed Trump's vision for America, emphasizing the role of tariffs in protecting domestic industries and reducing reliance on foreign manufacturing.

It was a pretty interesting interview.

He argued that tariffs are essential for rebuilding the nation's industrial base and achieving greater economic independence.

After watching the 60 Minutes interview and then seeing the stories about Mexico and Canada, I decided to dig a little deeper into the history of tariffs.

Who was McKinley, and what role did he play in shaping America’s economy?

What I found was fascinating. So, I thought I would share it with you.

By examining the historical context of McKinley’s tariffs and Trump’s modern economic agenda, we can better understand the opportunities of reintroducing these ideas in the 21st century.

Historical Background: William McKinley, Tariffs and the Gilded Age