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Buchanan, James, 1791-1868 Books
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George Ticknor Curtis
Life of James Buchanan, Fifteenth President of the United States. v. 2 (of 2)
"Life of James Buchanan, Fifteenth President of the United States, v. 2 (of 2)" by George Ticknor Curtis is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book provides an in-depth exploration of the life and presidency of James Buchanan, focusing on significant political events and personal correspondences during his career. The narrative delves into Buchanan’s relationships, political maneuvers, and the national atmosphere leading up to the Civil War. The opening of the work sets the scene in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where Buchanan acquires Wheatland, a comforting estate that becomes his permanent residence when not engaged in public service. This section introduces Buchanan's character through his correspondence regarding the purchase, showcasing his respect for political opponents and his intent to retire from political life after leaving office in 1849. However, it hints at the complexity of his engagement in politics during a turbulent time, indicating that Buchanan's public life was far from over as events unfolded around him. The detailed recounting of his correspondence reveals both his personal life and the pressing political context of the era, setting the stage for his later actions and the challenges faced during his presidency.
George Ticknor Curtis
Life of James Buchanan, Fifteenth President of the United States. v. 1 (of 2)
"Life of James Buchanan, Fifteenth President of the United States" by George Ticknor Curtis is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This biography delves into the life and times of James Buchanan, focusing on his public and private achievements, including his presidency during a tumultuous period in American history leading up to the Civil War. The work aims to provide an impartial examination of Buchanan’s life, arguing for the necessity of understanding his role and decisions amidst widespread criticism he faced during and after his tenure. The opening of the biography sets the stage for Buchanan’s story, detailing the author's relationship to his subject and his commitment to an unbiased portrayal. Curtis explains that he undertook this task based on the request of Buchanan’s family, emphasizing that he would maintain an independent perspective. The text also outlines Buchanan’s early life, including his birth, family background, and entry into public service. It hints at the challenges he faced, such as societal perceptions and personal losses, while establishing the broader historical context in which he would operate, ultimately framing his future political career against the backdrop of a nation on the brink of civil strife.
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A Compilation of the Messages and Papers of the Presidents. Volume 5, part 4: James Buchanan
"A Compilation of the Messages and Papers of the Presidents. Volume 5, part 4" compiled by James D. Richardson is a historical collection published between 1897 and 1911. This volume presents the proclamations, special messages, and speeches of President James Buchanan during his term from March 1857 to March 1861. Part of an eleven-volume series spanning 1787 to 1902, it preserves the official words of American presidents during a pivotal period preceding the Civil War. The compilation itself became controversial, sparking the Richardson Affair over copyrighting public documents.
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