10 Significal Presidential Elections In American History
...election be considered one of the most significant presidential elections in US history? It is impossible to judge the importance of any presidential election until time has passed. The 2004 election will have to demonstrate its impact on the nation. In order to be included in this list of the top ten presidential elections, a significant event had to impact the election's outcome or the election needed to result in a significant shift in party or policy.
1. Election of 1800
This presidential election is the most significant in US history because of its far reaching impact on electoral policies. The electoral college system from the Constitution broke down allowing Burr, the VP candidate to be in contention for the presidency against Jefferson. It was decided in the House after 26 ballots. Significance: The 12th Amendment was added changing the electoral process. Further, a peaceful exchange of political power occurred (Federalists out, Democratic-Republicans in.)
2. Election of 1860
The presidential election of 1860 demonstrated the necessity of taking a side on slavery. The newly formed Republican party adopted an anti-slavery platform that led to a narrow victory of arguably the greatest president in US history and also set the die for secession. Individuals who once associated with the Democratic or Whig parties yet who were anti-slavery realigned to join the Republicans. Those who were pro-slavery from the other noncommittal parties joined the Democrats.
3. Election of 1932
Another shift in political parties occurred with the presidential election of 1932. Roosevelt's Democratic Party came to power by forming the New Deal coalition that united groups that previously had not been associated with the same party. These included urban workers, northern African-Americans, Southern whites, and...
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