Buchanan's Presidency and Key Issues

By 1856, slavery had destabilized three presidencies and divided the nation. The Whig Party collapsed due to internal conflicts, and the Democratic Party faced similar issues. James Buchanan, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, was elected as a compromise candidate. Despite his impressive resume, Buchanan's presidency was marked by inaction and a belief that the Constitution protected slavery. The Dred Scott decision by the Supreme Court further inflamed tensions, leading to increased violence and the rise of the anti-slavery Republican Party. Buchanan's lack of response to South Carolina's secession paved the way for the Civil War.

What major issue caused the collapse of the Whig Party in 1856?

• Healthcare

• Foreign relations

• Slavery

• Economic policies

Why was James Buchanan considered a suitable candidate on paper?

• He was a war hero

• He was a successful businessman

• He was a famous author

• He had extensive political and legal experience

What was Buchanan's stance on the Constitution and slavery?

• He believed the Constitution was outdated

• He was indifferent to the Constitution

• He thought the Constitution protected slavery

• He believed the Constitution should be amended to abolish slavery

What was the outcome of the Dred Scott decision?

• It stated Congress couldn't ban slavery in the territories

• It allowed Congress to ban slavery in the territories

• It banned slavery in all states

• It declared slavery unconstitutional

How did the Dred Scott ruling affect the political climate?

• It calmed tensions between the North and South

• It made both sides angrier

• It led to immediate peace

• It had no significant impact

What was Buchanan's response to South Carolina's secession?

• He took immediate military action

• He resigned from the presidency

• He negotiated a peace treaty

• He did nothing to stop it

What major event did Buchanan's presidency oversee the start of?

• The American Revolution

• The War of 1812

• The Civil War

• World War I