Chapter 93: In Kansas the Free Staters gain control over the official Legislature.

When General Geary resigns, Pierce sends former Treasury Secretary, Robert Walker, to achieve the pro-slavery agenda. Six months after his arrival, on October 5, the Free Staters spring a surprise by deciding to participate in the election for the “official” Kansas Legislature.

This catches the Pro-Slavers by surprise, and all that’s left to them is a last second and obvious attempt to steal the election in several districts they control. The blatancy of their actions pushes Walker over the edge and he voids the phony ballots and declares the Free State victory.

Two months later Walker travels to DC to explain his decision to Buchanan who demands his resignation. Walker is shocked by the accusation and is not easily brushed aside. His exit is accompanied by a tirade against the President for betraying the popular sovereignty principles that were central to Walker’s acceptance of the post in the first place.