The election of 1860 was unique like no other, as it came down to four major candidates; Abraham Lincoln (Republican), Stephen Douglas (Democrat), John Breckinridge (Southern Democrat), and John Bell (Constitutional Union). This was a very intense and stressful time in American history due to many major political changes that occurred in a short period of time. The main focus of this election as America was evolving was individual states rights and slavery policies. By looking at Lincoln's presidential platform we can see the promises he made and the issues he faced during this era. This is important because this was a national crisis, and by looking at it, we can see Lincoln's leadership and ability to solve problems in his country. Looking specifically at plank nine in the Lincoln deck; explains how everyone in the United States is subject to freedom. By looking at this we are able to analyze what promises were made, why they made and kept them, and how this related to the central theme of a new world for all. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Before looking at the specific aspects of the Lincoln platform, a sense of safety, security, or light oversight from the federal government stood out as a common theme among the candidates. Each platform has indicated at some point that there is a sense of oath, support and assurance of balance control that will be implemented in the federal government. Each candidate, with their salary, also promised that the federal government will enforce the laws of the country, as the country was in a frenetic state. Each candidate wanted to bring a sense of unity and a sense of trust to each state, primarily targeting the white population as some had radical views and ideologies on slave law. During the 1860 election there was much unrest among some candidates. . Democrats were divided due to differing opinions on slavery. Typically the Democrats who were more in the southern region had a more “hands off” style of government where they could essentially govern themselves. Northern Democrats wanted a unified federal government to oversee all political processes. The Constitutional Party took both sides on slavery, rather than ensuring that they would follow a traditional constitution style government. The republics had the most unified base and had a moderate belief about slavery. In Lincoln's platform, point nine states: "That we brand the recent reopening of the African slave trade, under the cover of our national flag, aided by the perversions of the judiciary, as a crime against humanity and a burning disgrace to our country." country and age; and we ask the Congress to adopt rapid and effective measures for the total and permanent suppression of that execrable traffic. "Most people in the North had a very moderate view of slavery, many of them fighting to abolish it completely. This attitude was also reflected in politicians; promising the people that, if elected, he would restore the fundamental principles upon which America was built. In addition to social justice and granting land, liberty and property rights to everyone in the country, this was also a brilliant political campaign for Lincoln had gained so much trust in his people that he took nicknames such as Honest Abe and The Railsplitter Lincoln represented a hard-working, understanding country boy.