What is this cartoon illustrating about the United States and the 1860 election?

The candidates wanted a united nation.

The nation was badly divided along sectional lines.

The election was calm and civil.

The four candidates agreed on many things.

1 answer

The cartoon is illustrating that the nation was badly divided along sectional lines. The 1860 election was marked by significant tensions and divisions between the northern and southern states, primarily over issues such as slavery and state rights. The presence of multiple candidates, each representing different regional interests, further emphasized this division rather than promoting unity.