Define and explain the importance of the whiskey ring scandal

Definition of Whiskey Ring Scandal

Definition: The Whiskey Ring Scandal in 1875 erupted soon after the beginning of Grant's second presidential term in office. It concerned a conspiracy of distillers to bribe government officials and to defraud the government of the excise taxes on liquor. The Whiskey Ring conspiracy was public knowledge but it was considered impenetrable because of the strong political connections of the men involved. U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Benjamin H. Bristow resolved to break the conspiracy and in May, 1875 he succeeded in his goal and charges were brought against the conspirators.