So long as power and opportunity were based not upon public confidence but upon mere advantage of position, the contention of party leaders turned upon questions of appointment to office and the control of party machinery.

The Republican national convention of 1880 was the scene of a factional struggle which left deep marks upon public life and caused divisions lasting until the party leaders of that period were removed from the scene.

In September 1879, General Grant landed in San Francisco, after a tour around the world occupying over two years, and as he passed through the country he was received with a warmth which showed that popular devotion was abounding.
A movement in favor of renominating him to the Presidency was started under the direction of Senator Roscoe Conkling of New York.

Grant's renown as the greatest military leader of the Civil War was not his only asset in the eyes of his supporters.

In his career as President he had shown, on occasion, independence and steadfastness of character.