A Nation Torn:
A 42-year veteran of public office, Pennsylvania's James Buchanan faced unforeseen challenges almost immediately upon inauguration. During his first year in office, the Supreme Court issued its fateful Dred Scott decision, ruling that Congress could not ban slavery in the western territories. The decision greatly angered northern abolitionists. In 1859, abolitionist John Brown raided the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry, hoping to ignite a massive slave uprising. He was later captured and executed. The entire episode futher inflamed tensions between the Noth and South. During the rest of Buchanan's administration, he presided over a rapidly dividing nation. Seven southern states left the Union during his last months in office.

Fast Facts
Party:	Democrat
Date of Birth:	Saturday, April 23, 1791
Date of Death:	Monday, June 1, 1868
Vice President:	John C. Breckinridge
First Lady:	never married