Speech by George B. Loring Supporting James Buchanan

What it is

This is a printed pamphlet of a speech given by George B. Loring of Salem during the 1856 presidential campaign. Loring delivered the speech at Webster, Massachusetts, Providence, Rhode Island, Nashua, New Hampshire, and other towns in support of James Buchanan's candidacy. The pamphlet was published by request of the Democratic Town Committee of Webster and printed at the office of the Boston Post.

Why it matters

This document is a piece of campaign literature from one of the most contentious elections in American history, held in the years leading up to the Civil War. It shows how supporters like Loring tried to persuade voters by invoking the legacy of earlier leaders such as Washington, Jefferson, and Jackson. It offers insight into the political rhetoric and arguments used to build support for Buchanan's presidency.

Look closer

• Why might Loring compare Buchanan's campaign to the ideals of Washington, Jefferson, and Jackson?
• What does the language of the speech tell you about the political tensions of 1856?
• Who was the intended audience for this pamphlet, and how might that shape its content?