James Buchanan

Buchanan's passive response to secession crisis helped trigger Civil War. His inaction during the nation's greatest constitutional crisis remains historically condemned.

Buchanan's unnecessary military expedition against Utah Mormons wasted resources. The costly 'Buchanan's Blunder' achieved little while national crisis loomed.

Buchanan backed fraudulent pro-slavery Kansas constitution despite clear opposition. This decision fractured the Democratic Party and accelerated national division.

Buchanan publicly supported Supreme Court's notorious slavery ruling. His advance knowledge and endorsement of Dred Scott deepened constitutional crisis over slavery.

Buchanan's hesitant handling of Fort Sumter crisis emboldened Confederates. His military indecision set stage for war's first shots and national catastrophe.