The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election

The 1860 US Presidential Election was one of the most consequential in American history. It marked a turning point in the nation's politics and helped set the stage for the Civil War just a year later. There were four major candidates in the race, each representing different regions and political factions. The contest was marked by intense personal rivalries, high-stakes political maneuvering, and a deepening divide between North and South.

The focal point of the election was slavery, which had become a hot-button issue throughout the country. The Democrats, once a dominant political force, split into Northern and Southern factions over the question of whether to expand slavery into new territories. The Republicans, a relatively new party, emerged as the major anti-slavery force, fielding Abraham Lincoln as their standard-bearer. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Union Party, a coalition of former Whigs and Know-Nothings, sought to downplay the issue of slavery and focus on preserving the Union.

The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election provides a detailed account of this pivotal moment in American history. From the fiery speeches of candidates on the campaign trail to the backroom deals and parliamentary maneuvers that shaped the outcome, this article offers a comprehensive, insightful look at a crucial moment in our nation's past. If you're interested in American politics, the Civil War, or simply want to learn more about a critical turning point in our history, be sure to read this fascinating summary in full.

The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election

Overview

The United States presidential election of 1860 was one of the most consequential in American history. It was held on November 6, 1860, and it ultimately led to the secession of eleven Southern states and the beginning of the American Civil War. The election saw four candidates vying for the presidency: Abraham Lincoln of the Republican Party, John C. Breckinridge of the Southern Democratic Party, Stephen A. Douglas of the Northern Democratic Party, and John Bell of the Constitutional Union Party.

The Candidates

Abraham Lincoln was a relatively unknown politician at the national level, having only served one term in the House of Representatives from Illinois. He emerged as the dark horse candidate at the Republican National Convention, beating out more established politicians such as William Seward and Salmon P. Chase. His primary platform was opposition to the expansion of slavery into new territories.

John C. Breckinridge was the sitting Vice President of the United States under James Buchanan. He was chosen as the candidate of the Southern Democratic Party, which supported the expansion of slavery into the territories.

Stephen A. Douglas was a Senator from Illinois and a prominent figure in the Democratic Party. He was chosen as the candidate of the Northern Democratic Party, which also supported the expansion of slavery but believed in popular sovereignty, allowing individual states to decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery.

John Bell was a former Whig Party member and strong Unionist. He was chosen as the candidate of the Constitutional Union Party, which was formed by former Whigs and Know-Nothings who wanted to avoid the issue of slavery altogether.

The Issues

The biggest issue of the election was slavery and its expansion into new territories. The Republican Party, led by Lincoln, was firmly opposed to any further expansion of slavery. The Democratic Party was split on the issue, with Southern Democrats like Breckinridge supporting it and Northern Democrats like Douglas supporting popular sovereignty. The Constitutional Union Party tried to avoid the issue entirely, instead focusing on preserving the Union.

The Outcome

Abraham Lincoln won the election with 180 electoral votes, compared to Breckinridge's 72, Bell's 39, and Douglas's 12. However, Lincoln did not win a single southern state in the election, making his victory a clear indication of the sectional divide in the country. Shortly after his election, eleven southern states seceded from the Union and formed the Confederate States of America.

Historical Significance

The election of 1860 is widely regarded as one of the most consequential in American history. It set the country on a path to civil war and ultimately led to the end of slavery in the United States. It also highlighted the deep sectional divide in the country and the inability of politicians to find a compromise on the issue of slavery.

Opinions

Opinions on the election of 1860 vary, with some seeing it as a necessary step towards ending slavery and preserving the Union, while others see it as a tragic moment in American history that could have been avoided through compromise. Regardless of one's opinion on the matter, it cannot be denied that the election of 1860 was a pivotal moment in American history that continues to reverberate to this day.

Conclusion

The election of 1860 was a complex and divisive moment in American history, marked by competing ideologies and a sense of impending crisis. While Abraham Lincoln emerged victorious in the election, the ensuing civil war would take a tremendous toll on the country and its people. However, the election also marked the beginning of the end of slavery in the United States and the eventual reunification of the country after years of division and conflict.

Dear valued readers,

We hope you have enjoyed reading our comprehensive summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election - The Last Stand. Over the course of this article, we have delved deep into the intricate details of one of the most historical and pivotal events in American history, offering you a detailed account of the build-up to the election, the candidates and their campaigns, and the ultimate outcome.

As we reflect on the events that took place over a century ago, it's clear that the election of 1860 had a significant impact on American politics and society. The issues that were debated, including slavery and states' rights, continue to resonate in modern times and influence political discourse today. By examining the past, we can gain a deeper understanding of our present and make better decisions for our future.

With this in mind, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for choosing to read our article on The Last Stand. We hope you have found it informative, insightful, and engaging. Please feel free to leave us your feedback, comment or reach out with any questions you may have. Stay tuned for more exciting content coming your way.

Here are some commonly asked questions about The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election:

1. What is The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election?

   The Last Stand is a book that provides an in-depth analysis and summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election, which was a pivotal moment in American history. It covers the key players, events, and issues surrounding the election, including the rise of the Republican Party, the split of the Democratic Party, and the role of slavery in American politics.

2. Who wrote The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election?

   The Last Stand was written by David J. Eicher, who is an American historian and author. Eicher has written several books on the American Civil War and is considered an expert on the subject.

3. What is the significance of the 1860 US Presidential Election?

   The 1860 US Presidential Election was significant because it marked the beginning of the American Civil War. The election was highly contentious and resulted in the election of Abraham Lincoln, who was a strong opponent of slavery. This led to the secession of several southern states and the formation of the Confederate States of America.

4. Is The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election a good resource for researchers?

   Yes, The Last Stand is an excellent resource for researchers who are interested in the American Civil War, American politics, or American history in general. It provides a comprehensive overview of the election and its historical context, and includes detailed analysis and commentary from an expert in the field.

5. Where can I buy The Last Stand: A Comprehensive Summary of the 1860 US Presidential Election?

   The Last Stand is available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online retailers. It may also be available at local bookstores or libraries.