Civil War Second Party System

Civil War Second Party System

Historian Richard McCormick was the one to push the term “Second Party System” forward more than any other. Formed over a fifteen year period, the second party system described a period from 1828 to 1854 where voter interest and many parties came to play on the government level. Partisan newspapers also played a role during this time period in the things which were said and circulated as part of mainstream media. Anti-Masonic movements had also begun, which lead to verbal attacks on many leading members within the government.

Many issues like slavery and the different stances that some members of the government and parties made were very prevalent during these times. New eras brought new ideals and thoughts which made many of the old ways seem out of date. However, strength remained in this and groups like the Anti-Masonic party only flourished in areas where the current government did not hold strong support. As the parties gained in support, they also gained in the opinions that held sway in the government and for affecting the future of developments from the North to the South.

With the new campaign style, the voters were more involved in politics than ever before. Campaigning reached an all new kind of wave which led party leaders to reach out to more followers, often with their own beliefs as the main impression the party would give out. The West also had its own beliefs and held a strong ambition within the government for influencing the future. The Anti-Slavery movement in particular was very strong and continually enforced many abolitionist beliefs, especially when working together with the Liberty Party. The different regions eventually brought about a whole new change to the way campaigning was done and would help to inspire future movements.