What happened in the election of 1876 to prompt the inclusion of section 5 Illinois?

The election of 1876 was one of the most contentious in U.S. history, marked by widespread electoral disputes and allegations of voter fraud. The results between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel J. Tilden were so close that both parties claimed victory in several states. To resolve the crisis, Congress established a bipartisan Electoral Commission, which ultimately awarded the presidency to Hayes in exchange for the withdrawal of federal troops from the South, effectively ending Reconstruction. This compromise highlighted the need for clearer electoral processes, leading to reforms such as those included in Section 5 of the Illinois Constitution to ensure fairer elections.