Born in Charles City County, Virginia. His father was Benjamin Harrison, signer of the Declaration of Independence. His grandson was Benjamin Harrison, 23rd president.

He was commissioned an ensign in 1791 and was stationed at Fort Washington. In 1792 he was promoted to lieutenant. In 1794 he fought with General Anthony Wayne at the Battle of Fallen Timbers. In 1795 he was given command of Fort Washington (Cincinnati). Married Anna Tuthill Symmes November 25, 1795. They had ten children. Elected to Congress and served March 4, 1799, to May 14, 1800. He resigned to become governor.

Elected Governor of the Territory of Indiana serving 1801 to 1813. In 1811 Harrison moved against Indians under Chief Tecumseh. He achieved victory on the Tippecanoe River near the present site of Lafayette, Indiana. He earned the nickname "Old Tippecanoe." Served as major general during the war of 1812. Elected to the House of Representatives serving October 8, 1816, to March 3, 1819. Elected to the Senate serving 1825 to 1828.

Nominated for 9th President and elected in 1840. He was inaugurated March 4, 1841. He caught pneumonia and died April 4, 1841, in Washington, D.C. He was succeeded by Tyler.

Harrison appears on paper money:

$1 Southern Bank of Indiana, Terre Haute

Harrison was honored for his service during the war of 1812 with a mint medal (Julian MI-14). The 65 mm medal was from dies by Moritz Furst. A modern copy was issued (USM 418)

An Indian Peace Medal was struck for Harrison. The obverse die used for Julian MI-14 was rehubbed and reduced for a 52 mm medal. The standard John Reich reverse was used. Only one example of this medal is currently traced. It is in the collection of the American Numismatic Society.

A Presidential medal was also produced for Harrison (Julian PR-7). Dies for the 76 mm medal were by George T. Morgan. These were produced 40 years after the death of the President. The mint produced modern copies (USM 109).

The William Henry Harrison presidential dollar coin was released February 19, 2009.

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