The growing political, economic, and social differences in America were epitomized by the most crucial presidential election in the young nation’s history.
Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
The growing political, economic, and social differences in America were epitomized by the most crucial presidential election in the young nation’s history.
The U.S. House of Representatives opens debate on a constitutional amendment abolishing slavery that had been defeated last year. Supporters highlight moral imperatives, while opponents raise concerns about implications for states’ rights.
Abraham Lincoln is decisively reelected as U.S. president. This ensures that the National Unionists and Republicans will continue waging war to destroy the Confederacy and reunite the Union.
By November, most pundits believe that President Abraham Lincoln and his Republican party will win the upcoming elections. However, the Republicans are not taking any chances as they team up with War Democrats to form a “National Union” party.
Delegates assemble at Chicago to nominate an opponent for President Abraham Lincoln in the upcoming election. But the party is split over how to deal with the Confederacy.
As doubts continue growing about President Abraham Lincoln’s reelection chances, Lincoln asks his cabinet members to endorse a confidential memo acknowledging that he would probably not win the upcoming presidential election.