Election of 1860: Key Information
Who was involved?
- Candidates: Abraham Lincoln (Republican), Stephen A. Douglas (Northern Democrat), John C. Breckinridge (Southern Democrat), and John Bell (Constitutional Union).
- Political Groups: The Republican Party, Northern and Southern Democrats, and the Constitutional Union Party.
- Voters: Citizens across the United States, particularly in the Northern and Southern states, who were influenced by issues such as slavery, state rights, and economic policies.
What happened? The Election of 1860 was a pivotal moment in American history. It was marked by deep divisions between the North and South over issues like slavery. Abraham Lincoln won the presidency without carrying a single Southern state, receiving a significant majority of electoral votes. His election prompted intense reactions from Southern states, leading many to feel that their way of life was threatened. This unrest ultimately contributed to the secession of several Southern states from the Union, which set the stage for the Civil War.
Where did the event take place? The election took place across the entire United States, with voting occurring in each state.
When did the event take place? The election was held on November 6, 1860.
Why is this event important to Georgia’s history? The Election of 1860 was crucial for Georgia as it represented a decisive turning point in the state's political landscape. Georgia, being a slave state, strongly opposed Lincoln's anti-slavery platform. The election results heightened tensions and fear of losing the institution of slavery, resulting in Georgia's secession from the Union in January 1861. This event directly influenced Georgia's involvement in the Civil War and shaped its social, political, and economic future.
Summary
In summary, the Election of 1860 was a significant event that highlighted the growing divide between Northern and Southern states over slavery and state rights. It led to the election of Abraham Lincoln as president and ultimately set the stage for the secession of Southern states, including Georgia, which had lasting effects on the state and the nation as a whole.