The 54th Congress of the United States convened from March 4, 1895, to March 4, 1897. It was a session of the legislative branch, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. This Congress was notable for its debates on issues such as tariffs, currency, and the economic challenges of the time, including the aftermath of the Panic of 1893. During the 54th Congress, significant legislation was passed, including the Dingley Tariff Act, which raised tariffs to protect American industries. The Congress was also marked by the leadership of key figures like Speaker of the House Thomas B. Reed and the ongoing tensions related to U.S. foreign policy in the Caribbean and the Pacific.