The American Presidential Election of 1804

The 1804 presidential election saw Thomas Jefferson, the Democratic Republican candidate, seeking reelection against Federalist Charles C. Pinckney. This election was the first after the 12th Amendment, which changed how electors voted for President and Vice President. Jefferson distanced himself from his Vice President, Aaron Burr, after Burr killed Alexander Hamilton in a duel. Jefferson's popularity soared due to achievements like the Louisiana Purchase. The Federalists ran a weak campaign, and Jefferson won by a large margin, receiving 162 electoral votes to Pinckney's 14. This victory marked a significant blow to the Federalist Party.

What was a significant change in the electoral process introduced by the 12th Amendment?

• The President was chosen by Congress.

• Electors voted for President and Vice President separately.

• The Vice President was the runner-up in the election.

• The electoral college was abolished.

Why did Thomas Jefferson distance himself from Aaron Burr during his first term?

• Burr was a Federalist sympathizer.

• Burr opposed the Louisiana Purchase.

• Burr had killed Alexander Hamilton in a duel.

• Burr was involved in a scandal.

Who was chosen as Thomas Jefferson's running mate in the 1804 election?

• Aaron Burr

• George Clinton

• Charles Cotesworth Pinckney

• Rufus King

Which states did Thomas Jefferson not win in the 1804 election?

• Pennsylvania and Ohio

• Delaware and Connecticut

• New York and Virginia

• Massachusetts and New Hampshire

What was notable about Jefferson's victory margin in the 1804 election?

• It was the first time a third-party candidate won.

• It was the first tie in electoral votes.

• It was the most lopsided in American history.

• It was the narrowest in history.