introudction

Question 1

background

Answer 1

Until around the 1850s American politics had been based on a system of compromise with what was known as the 2nd party system, whereby the Whigs and Democrats competed for votes. However, during the 1850s America arguably grew into a country of sections which divided party loyalties, the division ultimately resulted in the breakup of the 2nd Party System and the emergence of a new party which was eventually to dominate by 1860, called the Republicans.

Question 2

historians views

Answer 2

Historians such as William Gienapp argue that the growing belief by Northerners that a “slave power conspiracy” contributed significantly to the emergence of the Republican Party, whereas other historians like Alan Farmer argue that the emergence of nativist concerns were more important in explaining the growth of Republicanism. Moreover, other historians like Hugh Tulloch argue that the impact of Kansas - Nebraska was more significant. Historians such as Alan Farmer argue that it was because of failings of political leaders, finally Horace Greely argue that it was because of Northern economic policies.

Question 3

line of argument

Answer 3

This essay will argue that “a slave power conspiracy” was the most significant reason for the emergence of the Republican Party by 1856.