The American Presidential Election of 1852

The 17th U.S. presidential election in 1852 saw Franklin Pierce, a dark horse candidate, win against Whig nominee Winfield Scott. The election was marked by the collapse of the Whig Party and the rise of third parties like the Free Soil Party. The Democratic Party, with Pierce as their candidate, capitalized on the divided Whig Party and similar platforms between the two major parties. The election highlighted the growing tensions over slavery and the political instability of the era.

What was the major national issue during the presidencies of Taylor and Fillmore?

• The annexation of Texas

• The expansion of slavery in western territories

• The gold rush in California

• The industrial revolution

Who was the Whig Party's nominee for the 1852 presidential election?

• Winfield Scott

• Millard Fillmore

• Daniel Webster

• Franklin Pierce

Which party had a strong showing in the 1848 election and nominated John P. Hale in 1852?

• The Southern Rights Party

• The Know Nothing Party

• The Union Party

• The Free Soil Party

What was unique about the 1852 election regarding California?

• California did not participate in the election

• California was not yet a state

• It was the first election in which California could vote

• California had its own candidate

How many electoral votes did Franklin Pierce receive in the 1852 election?

• 100

• 42

• 254

• 185

What was the outcome for the Whig Party after the 1852 election?

• They formed a coalition with the Democrats

• They began to collapse

• They won the presidency

• They gained more popularity

What personal tragedy affected Franklin Pierce before his presidency?

• He lost his wife

• He was in a train accident that killed his only surviving son

• He lost his fortune

• He was impeached