Who lost the presidential election of 1876 despite winning the popular vote?

Samuel Tilden is recognized as the candidate who lost the presidential election of 1876 even though he secured the majority of the popular vote. In this highly contested election, Tilden, the Democratic nominee, received about 51% of the popular vote, compared to his Republican opponent, Rutherford B. Hayes, who garnered around 48%. However, the election was marred by disputes over the results in several states, leading to a significant controversy regarding electoral votes.

The crucial aspect of this election was the outcome in the Electoral College, where Hayes ultimately won 185 votes to Tilden's 184 after a deal was struck to resolve the disputes over the contested states of Florida, Louisiana, and South Carolina. This compromise effectively awarded Hayes the presidency despite Tilden's stronger support from the electorate. The event also sparked discussions about electoral integrity and the influence of political compromise, particularly in the post-Civil War era, illustrating the complex dynamics of American politics at the time.