James Buchanan: 15th US President.

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 | Appointment of the president |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: 
3 min read

James Buchanan was inaugurated as the 15th President of the United States. He entered office with experience as a former Secretary of State and a Senator. Buchanan faced a divided nation on the brink of the Civil War, with tensions rising between the North and South over slavery. Buchanan's presidency is known for the Dred Scott decision, a Supreme Court ruling that stated African Americans, whether free or enslaved, were not American citizens and had no rights. This decision further fueled the tensions between the North and South. Despite efforts to prevent the outbreak of war, Buchanan's presidency ultimately failed to ease the growing divide between the states. His administration was marked by inaction and indecision in the face of mounting tensions. James Buchanan's term as President left a mixed legacy, with historians often ranking him as one of the worst presidents in U.S. history. His failure to address the issue of slavery and prevent the Civil War overshadowed his diplomatic experience. #JamesBuchanan #USPresident #CivilWar #DredScott #DividedNation
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