C

D

False

The realignment of the American political system between 1854 and 1861 was a period of significant change and upheaval. This era saw the emergence of the Republican Party as a major political force, the decline of the Whig Party, and the increasing polarization between the North and the South over the issue of slavery.

The realignment began with the collapse of the Whig Party in the mid-1850s, as the party was unable to effectively address the growing tensions over slavery. In its place, the Republican Party emerged as a coalition of anti-slavery activists, former Whigs, and disaffected Democrats. The Republican Party's platform was centered on opposition to the expansion of slavery into the western territories, and it quickly gained support in the North.

At the same time, the Democratic Party, which had been the dominant political force in the South, became increasingly divided along regional lines. The issue of slavery and its expansion became a central point of contention, leading to the fracturing of the party along sectional lines.

This realignment of the political system ultimately culminated in the election of Abraham Lincoln as President in 1860. His victory was a clear indication of the shifting political landscape, as he won without carrying a single Southern state. This election result further exacerbated the tensions between the North and the South, ultimately leading to the secession of Southern states and the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861.

Overall, the realignment of the American political system between 1854 and 1861 was a period of intense political change, marked by the rise of the Republican Party, the decline of the Whigs, and the increasing polarization between the North and the South over the issue of slavery. This period set the stage for the tumultuous events that would follow in the coming years.

C

The Louisiana Purchase was a significant event in American history that was influenced by several factors. One of the main factors was the desire to secure access to the port of New Orleans and the Mississippi River for American trade. At the time, the port was controlled by Spain, and there were concerns that they might restrict or block American access to the river, which was vital for the transportation of goods to the Gulf of Mexico and beyond.

Another factor was the potential for westward expansion and the desire to acquire more land for agricultural and economic development. The Louisiana Territory, which was owned by France at the time, offered a vast expanse of fertile land that could be settled and cultivated by American farmers.

Thomas Jefferson, who was the President at the time, was initially reluctant to agree to the purchase for several reasons. He was concerned about the constitutionality of acquiring new territory and whether it was within the powers granted to the federal government. He also had reservations about the cost of the purchase and the potential for increased federal power and influence over the new territory.

However, Jefferson ultimately agreed to the purchase for several reasons. The opportunity to secure access to the port of New Orleans and the Mississippi River was too important to pass up, and the potential for westward expansion and economic growth was too significant to ignore. Additionally, the offer from France to sell the entire Louisiana Territory at a relatively low price was too good to refuse.

The Louisiana Purchase was significant for several reasons. It doubled the size of the United States and paved the way for westward expansion and the settlement of new territories. It also secured access to the Mississippi River and the port of New Orleans, which was crucial for American trade and economic development. The purchase also set a precedent for the acquisition of new territory and expanded the influence and power of the federal government. Overall, the Louisiana Purchase was a pivotal moment in American history that had far-reaching implications for the future of the nation.

B