Buchanan Administration - Introduction

Introduction

James Buchanan was an affable, conciliatory man who was a fixture in the Democratic Party of the mid-nineteenth century. As a legislator, Buchanan helped build the Democratic Party, and sided with southern politicians as tensions over slavery began to rise in the Congress. As a diplomat and secretary of state, Buchanan defended U.S. interests abroad, and played a major role in the establishment of the current boundaries of the United States. Buchanan was chosen for president because of his good relations with both northern and southern politicians and his ability to avoid controversy. He proved unable to defuse the ever-increasing tensions over slavery, however. His term in office is best remembered for the secession of the South from the Union, which led to the American Civil War (1861–65) only weeks after he left office.