James Buchanan

15th President of the United States

Years in Office: 1857-1861

Party: Democratic

Did you know?

President James Buchanan was known for his love of animals and kept a pet elephant named "Lara" that roamed freely on the White House grounds, delighting visitors and especially children who enjoyed interacting with the gentle pachyderm.

James Buchanan

James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States, served from 1857 to 1861. Born on April 23, 1791, in Cove Gap, Pennsylvania, Buchanan had a long and distinguished political career before assuming the presidency. He held various diplomatic positions, including Minister to Russia and Secretary of State under President James K. Polk. Buchanan's presidency, however, is largely remembered for the growing sectional tensions that eventually led to the Civil War.

His approach to the issue of slavery further divided the nation. Buchanan struggled to find a middle ground between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions, and his support for the controversial Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 exacerbated the situation. The Supreme Court's infamous Dred Scott decision during his presidency further heightened tensions. Buchanan faced criticism for his perceived inaction and inability to prevent the Southern states' secession, which occurred shortly after Abraham Lincoln's election in 1860. Though he aimed for a legacy of unity, Buchanan's presidency is often criticized for contributing to the unraveling of the Union. He retired from politics after leaving office and died on June 1, 1868.