Chapter 111: The new Southern Democrats choose John C. Breckinridge.

Another “bolter” convention is held immediately at the Maryland Institute Hall with additional delegates joining from Oregon, California and a few from New York and Massachusetts. The latter includes Caleb Cushing who shifts from presiding over the original convention to do the same for the Southerners.

The new party name – Southern Democrats – is adopted immediately, followed by voting for the ticket. The top spot goes to 30 year old John C. Breckinridge of Kentucky, the currently sitting Vice-President under James Buchanan. In the past he has supported Stephen Douglas, earned a reputation in the Senate for fairness, and has been cautious about secession. But he now wins handily on the first ballot:

Southern Democrats Presidential Nomination