The Election of 1860 and the Secession Crisis - Civil War and Reconstruction

Explore the pivotal events leading up to the American Civil War in this 51-minute lecture from Yale University's course on The Civil War and Reconstruction. Delve into the aftermath of John Brown's raid and its impact on American society. Examine the complex four-way election of 1860 that resulted in Abraham Lincoln's presidency. Analyze the subsequent secession of seven Deep South states, led by South Carolina, and the various rationales behind their decision to leave the Union. Gain insights into this crucial period of American history through Professor Blight's in-depth analysis of the political, social, and ideological factors that contributed to the impending conflict.

- Chapter 1. Introduction
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- Chapter 2. John Brown's Trial and Publicity
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- Chapter 3. John Brown: Was His Violence Justifiable?
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- Chapter 4. The Four-Way Election of 1860
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- Chapter 5. The Palmetta Republic and the Southern Secession
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- Chapter 6. Reasons for Secession and Conclusion
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