Martin Van Buren Elected President in 1836

Name: Martin Van Buren Elected President in 1836
Start: 1782-12-07
Location: Unspecified

The Historic Election of Martin Van Buren

Who Was Martin Van Buren?

Martin Van Buren, born in Kinderhook, New York, in 1782, was a prominent American statesman and politician who played a crucial role in the development of the Democratic Party. Before his presidency, he served as Vice President, Secretary of State, and was also a key figure in the early years of the United States government. His political career was characterized by advocating for the common citizen and promoting a strong party system.

Van Buren’s Key Policies and Campaign

In the 1836 presidential election, Martin Van Buren campaigned with the slogan of continuing the policies of President Andrew Jackson. He emphasized issues such as the Bank War and the removal of Native Americans, positioning himself as a protector of the common man against elite institutions. His background as a lawyer and politician helped him resonate with voters who desired a strong leader amidst growing political divisions.

The 1836 Election Results

Van Buren Wins the Presidency

The presidential election held on November 8, 1836, resulted in a decisive victory for Martin Van Buren, who garnered 170 electoral votes compared to his closest rival, William Henry Harrison, who obtained only 73. This election was significant as it marked Van Buren becoming the eighth President of the United States and the first president born after the American Revolution. His leadership was seen as a continuation of the Jacksonian policies.

The Role of Third Parties in the Election

While Martin Van Buren was a strong candidate for the Democrats, the campaign also featured notable third-party candidates like the Whigs, who rallied various groups together, including anti-masons and former National Republicans. Despite their efforts, they could not overcome Van Buren's momentum and the solid support he received from the Democratic Party.

Fun Fact

Van Buren's Nickname

Martin Van Buren was often referred to as “Old Kinderhook”, a moniker that originated from his birthplace. This nickname was also used in his political campaigns, creating a sense of familiarity among voters. It highlights the importance of personal branding in politics.