Episode 18: Rise of the Republicans

In 1854 group of anti-slavery Wisconsinites met and declared the foundation of a new political party. Within two years it became a new, formidable rival to the Democrats and began absorbing nearly all Northern politics into its own orbit. Today we explore the question of who joined the party and why it could grow so powerful, so quickly. Plus, James Buchanan absent-mindedly saunters into the White House. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uscivilwar.substack.com