USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -While the platforms of the various parties competing for the presidency in 1860 discussed issues such as a national tariff, the Homestead Act, and a transcontinental railroad, the main issue dominating the campaign was slavery. The Democratic Party split over the issue of slavery.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Election of 1860 The election was unusual because four strong candidates competed for the presidency. Political parties of the day were in flux. The dominant party, the Democratic Party, had split into two sectional factions, with each promoting its own candidate.