William McKinley was shot on September 6, 1901, by Leon Czolgosz, an anarchist. The attack occurred at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York, as McKinley was greeting the public. Czolgosz fired two bullets at close range, hitting McKinley in the abdomen and chest. Though he initially appeared to recover, complications arose, leading to his death on September 14, after profound public mourning and concern about the safety of American leaders. McKinley had already established a legacy of promoting American industry and imperialism through military action, notably during the Spanish-American War.

Upon McKinley's death, Theodore Roosevelt, the Vice President, was sworn in as the 26th President of the United States. Roosevelt’s presidency marked a new approach, focusing on progressive reform, trust-busting, and enhancing the national park system. His ascent to power represented not only a generational shift in leadership but also a changing perspective on government’s role in the economy and society. Roosevelt’s vigorous personality and prior accomplishments as Governor of New York shaped his dynamic approach in office.

The assassination and subsequent death of McKinley revealed vulnerabilities within the nation's political framework, as well as increased scrutiny and regulation of security details surrounding public officials. In the broader context, this event symbolized a burgeoning tension between established political systems and rising radical movements, influencing how future leaders approached governance and public safety.