Whig Party Controversies and Collapse

The video explores the rise and fall of the American Whig Party, which was prominent in the mid-19th century but collapsed due to internal divisions and external pressures. Key factors include a lack of unified ideology, the divisive nomination of Zachary Taylor, and the contentious issue of slavery. The Whig Party's inability to adapt to changing political landscapes and address slavery led to its decline, overshadowed by the rise of the Republican Party.

What was the primary reason for the Whig Party's initial formation?

• To promote the abolition of slavery

• To oppose Andrew Jackson and the Democratic Party

• To establish a new national bank

• To support Andrew Jackson's policies

Which two factions divided the Whig Party over the issue of slavery?

• Democrats and Republicans

• Federalists and Republicans

• Nationalists and Populists

• Conscience Whigs and Cotton Whigs

Why was Zachary Taylor's nomination as a presidential candidate controversial for the Whig Party?

• He was a hero of the Mexican-American War, which the Whigs opposed

• He was a strong supporter of the Whig principles

• He had extensive political experience

• He was a Northern abolitionist

What was the most widely accepted reason for the Whig Party's collapse?

• Economic policies

• Expansion of slavery

• Military strategies

• Foreign relations

Which new political party attracted many Northern Whigs due to its anti-slavery stance?

• Libertarian Party

• Democratic Party

• Federalist Party

• Republican Party

What was the impact of the Kansas-Nebraska Act on the Whig Party?

• It united the Whig Party

• It further divided the Whig Party

• It led to the Whig Party's victory in elections

• It had no significant impact

What was a common perception of the Whig Party that alienated potential supporters?

• They were seen as out of touch with common voters

• They were viewed as too populist

• They were considered too radical

• They were seen as too focused on foreign policy

What lesson does the Whig Party's story serve as a reminder of?

• The importance of military strength

• The need for economic policies

• The significance of unity and clear ideological direction

• The value of foreign alliances

Which issue did the Whig Party fail to address, leading to its downfall?

• Slavery

• Economic recession

• Foreign policy

• Military expansion

Who was a prominent figure that left the Whig Party for the Republican Party?

• Andrew Jackson

• Millard Fillmore

• Henry Clay

• Abraham Lincoln