The Most Consequential Elections in History - US News and World Report

The Most Consequential Elections in History

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.

Theodore Roosevelt and the Election of 1904

Roosevelt expanded the power of the presidency and demonstrated the power of the "bully pulpit".

Woodrow Wilson and the Election of 1912

Wilson was one of the most brilliant and cerebral presidents.

Franklin Roosevelt and the Election of 1932

FDR led America to victory in World War II.

Lyndon Johnson and the Election of 1964

Johnson's overreaching in Vietnam was seen by Americans as an expensive mistake.

Ronald Reagan and the Election of 1980

Reagan gave conservatism a pleasant face and an appealing voice.

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.

Thomas Jefferson and the Election of 1800

Jefferson's election confirmed the emergence of a two-party system in American politics.

Andrew Jackson and the Election of 1828

Jackson's term changed the way Americans thought of the presidency.

Abraham Lincoln and the Election of 1860

Abraham Lincoln's victory in 1860 triggered the nation's worst cataclysm, the Civil War.

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.

Ken Walsh on the Presidency

Having covered the White House for U.S. News full time since 1986, Ken Walsh brings perspective and insight to his magazine column.

Washington Whispers

Report Digs Up Senate Candidates' Sordid Past

At least 13 people running for Senate have a troubled financial past.

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