Historical1791
James Buchanan Born
James Buchanan was born in Cove Gap, Pennsylvania. He served as the 15th President from 1857 to 1861, presiding over the deepening national crisis over slavery that led to the secession of Southern states and the onset of the Civil War.
Why It Matters
Buchanan's presidency illustrates the consequences of political inaction during a constitutional crisis, offering lessons about the responsibilities of leadership in a divided republic.