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15th

15th President of the United States · 1857–1861

James Buchanan

DemocraticPennsylvania

Only bachelor president, preceded Civil War

Last verified: June 2026

~1 min read · 37 words

Key Facts

Term: 1857–1861
Party: Democratic
Vice President: John C. Breckinridge
First Lady: Harriet Lane (niece, served as hostess)
Home State: Pennsylvania
Born: 1791
Died: 1868

Biography

Buchanan's presidency is widely regarded as a failure for his inability to prevent the secession crisis.

Key Events & Accomplishments

Presided over the secession of seven Southern states
Endorsed the Dred Scott decision

Election Results

Year	Opponent	Electoral Vote	Popular Vote
1856	John C. Fremont, Millard Fillmore	174-114-8	+12.2% (three-way race)

Did You Know?

Buchanan is the only president who never married.

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