The 48th United States Congress convened from March 4, 1883, to March 4, 1885. It was a significant period in American history, marked by the aftermath of the Civil War and the ongoing challenges of Reconstruction. The Congress consisted of the Senate and the House of Representatives, with key legislation addressing issues like tariffs and civil service reform. During this Congress, the Democratic Party regained control of the House, while the Republican Party maintained a majority in the Senate. Notable events included debates over the Chinese Exclusion Act and the establishment of the Interstate Commerce Commission, which aimed to regulate railroad rates and practices.