Who won the presidential election in 1860?

Abraham Lincoln won the presidential election in 1860, marking a pivotal moment in American history. His victory is significant for several reasons. First, Lincoln was the first candidate from the Republican Party to win the presidency, and his election was largely driven by his platform of stopping the expansion of slavery into the territories. This stance resonated with many Northern voters who were increasingly opposed to the control of slaveholding interests in the federal government.

Lincoln's election also highlighted the deep divisions within the United States at the time. The country was facing a growing divide between the North and the South over issues such as slavery, economic interests, and states' rights. Following his election, several Southern states seceded from the Union, leading directly to the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861.

The other candidates in the election also played important roles, but they were unable to unify the divided electorate. Stephen A. Douglas represented the Northern Democrats and advocated for popular sovereignty regarding the expansion of slavery. John C. Breckinridge was the Southern Democratic candidate who supported the protection of slavery in the territories, while William H. Seward was a strong contender for the Republican nomination but ultimately lost to Lincoln. Thus, Lincoln's victory was not only a