Origins & Early Life

James Buchanan Jr. (April 23, 1791 – June 1, 1868) was the 15th president of the United States, serving from 1857 to 1861. A Democrat from Pennsylvania, he upheld a pro-slavery interpretation of the U.S. Constitution that did little to reverse the sectional crisis between the North and South.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

In his final months in office, seven Southern states seceded, forming the Confederacy. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces attacked Fort Sumter, starting the American Civil War. During his time as a member of the Federalist Party, Buchanan was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He won five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, aligning with the Democratic Party of Andrew Jackson.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Buchanan was appointed Minister to Russia by President Jackson in 1832 and became a U.S. Senator in 1834. Serving in the Senate until 1845, he became the 17th U.S. Secretary of State under President James K. Polk, and served as Minister to Britain under President Franklin Pierce from 1853 to 1856. Beginning in 1844, Buchanan became a regular contender for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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