James Buchanan: The Civil War Approaches (1857 - 1861)

The video explores the presidency of James Buchanan, highlighting his incompetence and indecisiveness, which contributed to the onset of the Civil War. It covers his political career, the Dred Scott decision, and the Kansas controversy. Buchanan's inability to address secession effectively is also discussed, leading to the Civil War shortly after his presidency.

What was a significant criticism of James Buchanan's presidency?

• His military strategies

• His aggressive foreign policy

• His indecisiveness and passivity

• His economic reforms

Which former president ridiculed Buchanan as 'without judgment'?

• James Polk

• Andrew Jackson

• Millard Fillmore

• Franklin Pierce

What was the Dred Scott decision's impact on the United States?

• It resolved the slavery issue peacefully

• It ensured the continuation of slavery in the North

• It contributed to the onset of the Civil War

• It strengthened the federal government's power over states

Why was Buchanan considered a safe choice for the presidential nomination in 1856?

• He was untainted by the Kansas-Nebraska controversy

• He had strong support from the Republican Party

• He was a war hero

• He had a successful business background

What was Buchanan's stance on the Lecompton Constitution?

• He opposed it strongly

• He supported it and sought congressional approval

• He remained neutral

• He vetoed it

What was a consequence of Buchanan's support for the Lecompton Constitution?

• He gained popularity in the North

• He was impeached

• He faced political damage and impeachment efforts

• He secured a second term

What was a major outcome of the Democratic Convention in 1860?

• The convention was canceled

• The party united behind a single candidate

• The party split into factions

• Buchanan was re-nominated

Who was the Republican candidate in the 1860 election?

• John C. Breckinridge

• Stephen Douglas

• Abraham Lincoln

• John Bell

What was Buchanan's response to the secession crisis?

• He denied the right to secede but took no action

• He immediately reinforced federal forts

• He declared war on the seceding states

• He resigned from the presidency

What event marked the beginning of the Civil War?

• The shelling of Fort Sumter

• The signing of the Lecompton Constitution

• The election of Abraham Lincoln

• The Dred Scott decision