1901: The Anarchist Who Shot a President: Leon Czolgosz Electrocuted for Killing William McKinley

Leon Czolgosz, an anarchist, shot President William McKinley at point-blank range during a public reception at the Temple of Music in Buffalo, New York, on 6 September 1901. McKinley initially seemed to be recovering from his wounds, giving doctors and the public hope, but he died eight days later.

Czolgosz was swiftly tried and convicted of the killing. He was electrocuted on this day in 1901, one of the clearest and most public reckonings in the history of presidential assassinations in the United States.

Leon Czolgosz mug shot portrait: 1901
Leon Czolgosz mug shot portrait: 1901

⬅ See all events from 29 October

Spread the word on your favourite platform!

Subscribe to Dark Stories True Crime On This Day

True crime stories, dark history and tour news, straight to your inbox.