The stakes in this year's presidential campaign are high. But that's nothing new. There have been many other pivotal presidential elections in our history, some that set an entirely new course for the United States and a few that were crucial to the very survival of the republic. To put the current campaign in perspective, U.S. News examines the most consequential elections in American history.
George Washington, the 1st President of the United States of America.
George Washington and the Election of 1788
It seemed very clear to the Founders, and to the public, that he was the man to lead the new nation.
Engraved portrait of American President Thomas Jefferson (1743 - 1826), early 1800s.
Thomas Jefferson and the Election of 1800
Jefferson's election confirmed the emergence of a two-party system in American politics.
Andrew Jackson the 7th President of the United States of America.
Andrew Jackson and the Election of 1828
Jackson's term changed the way Americans thought of the presidency.
Portrait of 16th United States President Abraham Lincoln.
Abraham Lincoln and the Election of 1860
Abraham Lincoln's victory in 1860 triggered the nation's worst cataclysm, the Civil War.
19th November 1863: Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States of America, making his famous 'Gettysburg Address' speech at the dedication of the Gettysburg National Cemetery during the American Civil War. Original Artwork: Painting by Fletcher C Ransom
Abraham Lincoln and the 1864 Election
Lincoln's victory in 1860 triggered the Civil War, and his victory in 1864 allowed him to win it.
American politician Theodore Roosevelt, (1858 - 1919), 26th President of the United States of America.
Theodore Roosevelt and the Election of 1904
Roosevelt expanded the power of the presidency and demonstrated the power of the "bully pulpit".
circa 1916: The 28th President of the United States Woodrow Wilson (1856 - 1924)
Woodrow Wilson and the Election of 1912
Wilson was one of the most brilliant and cerebral presidents.
Franklin D. Roosevelt pictured on Jan. 19, 1937.
Franklin Roosevelt and the Election of 1932
FDR led America to victory in World War II.
Portrait dated 09 March 1964 of US President Lyndon Johnson at the White House in Washington.
Lyndon Johnson and the Election of 1964
Johnson's overreaching in Vietnam was seen by Americans as an expensive mistake.
President Reagan is pictured during an interview in the Oval Office
Ronald Reagan and the Election of 1980
Reagan gave conservatism a pleasant face and an appealing voice.
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