The American Presidential Election of 1796

The 1796 presidential election was the first contested election in U.S. history after George Washington declined a third term. With 12 candidates, the election saw John Adams and Thomas Jefferson emerge as president and vice president, respectively, despite being from opposing parties. This unique outcome led to the 12th Amendment. The election was marked by intense campaigning, with federalists and democratic republicans clashing over issues like the French Revolution and relations with Britain. The election also highlighted the evolving electoral process, with Tennessee's addition increasing the electoral college to 138 electors.

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