The 1860 campaign for President is unique in America’s history, and it sets the stage for the break-up of the Union which follows.
Never before has the country been confronted with more than three sizable political parties in a presidential race.
In 1860, there are suddenly four separate political parties, each offering distinct platforms and reasonably credible candidates.
On top of that, this becomes the first election since James Monroe in 1820 where the outcome is almost a certainty before the first ballot is cast.