The American Presidential Election of 1868

The 21st presidential election in 1868 was the first after the Civil War, during the Reconstruction era. Andrew Johnson, who succeeded Lincoln, was not renominated due to his unpopularity. The Democrats nominated Horatio Seymour, who was reluctant, while the Republicans chose Ulysses Grant, a Civil War hero. The campaign was marked by personal attacks and was the first where African-American men could vote. Grant won decisively in the electoral college but narrowly in the popular vote. This election marked the beginning of Republican dominance, though Democrats remained a significant force.

What new insight or understanding did you gain from this video?