Asked by Alyssa Belle on Jun 03, 2024
Verified
Franklin Pierce's election as president in 1852 was due to __________________.
A) his charismatic personality.
B) the weaknesses of the Whig party.
C) the strength of the Free-Soil party's organization.
D) his fame as a commanding general in the War with Mexico.
Franklin Pierce
The 14th President of the United States (1853-1857), known for his pro-Southern views and policies that exacerbated sectional tensions leading up to the Civil War.
Whig Party
A political party active in the United States from the 1830s to the 1850s, advocating for federal government involvement in the economy and opposing the Democratic Party on issues regarding states' rights.
Free-Soil Party
A pre-Civil War political party in the United States that was opposed to the expansion of slavery into the western territories.
- Understand the political dynamics and ideological divides of the mid-19th century American political landscape.
- Identify the significant political figures and parties of the mid-19th century and their impacts on American politics.
Verified Answer
KC
Kristel CoakleyJun 06, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
The Whig party was weakened by internal disagreements over issues such as slavery, which allowed Franklin Pierce to win the presidency with the support of the Democratic party. While Pierce had a relatively unremarkable political career, his nomination was seen as a compromise that could unite the various factions within the Democratic party. Pierce's charisma or his military career were not significant factors in his election. The Free-Soil party did not have enough support to win the election outright, although they did influence the debate over slavery in the territories.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the political dynamics and ideological divides of the mid-19th century American political landscape.
- Identify the significant political figures and parties of the mid-19th century and their impacts on American politics.