The Corruption of the Harding Administration

Warren G. Harding's presidency was marred by a significant corruption scandal that ultimately became known as the Teapot Dome scandal. At the center of the controversy was Secretary of the Interior Albert Fall, who secretly negotiated oil leases with wealthy businessmen Doheny and Sinclair, allowing them to exploit federal oil reserves in exchange for bribery. This scandal not only highlighted the ethical lapses within Harding's administration but also set a precedent for public distrust in government that would last for decades. Beyond Teapot Dome, Harding's administration was plagued by numerous other scandals rooted in the actions of a group known as the Ohio Gang, a collection of friends and political allies who exploited their positions for personal gain.