Article Summary –
The article argues that the current political climate, while seemingly full of drama, pales in comparison to the history of American politics which has seen violent actions, widespread accusations of election cheating, and deep divisions. The author notes examples such as the 1800 smear campaigns against Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, violent altercations in Congress including a 1838 duel where Rep. Graves shot Rep. Cilley, and the outbreak of the Civil War following Abraham Lincoln’s election. The author concludes by stating that the upcoming 2024 election will likely be filled with similar behaviors and advises the public to fight for candidates, respect results, and prepare for future elections.
OPINION AND COMMENTARY
Editorials and opinion content offer insights into issues impacting our community and are distinct from our newsroom reports.
The Unprecedented Drama of the 2024 Presidential Campaign?
The 2024 presidential campaign is filled with drama, prompting assertions from numerous pundits that this is the worst ever seen. However, it does not hold a candle to the rough and tumble, often vitriolic, American politics since our country’s inception.
The History of Nasty Politics
For instance, in the 1800 Presidential race, Thomas Jefferson faced discrediting allegations of promoting prostitution, incest, and adultery. His opponent, John Adams, was mockingly called “His Rotundity” and accused of aspiring for a dynasty.
Congressional Confrontations: Then vs Now
Compared to the historical violent episodes in Congress, the contemporary verbal sparring between Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Marjorie Taylor Greene seem benign. It’s noteworthy that in 1838, Rep. William Graves of Kentucky killed Maine Rep. Jonathan Cilley in a duel.
Elections and Accusations: An Ongoing Trend
Arriving at the present, allegations of election fraud are commonplace, yet this is not new. In the 1824 elections, accusations of the “corrupt bargain” were rampant when Andrew Jackson won the popular vote but lost the presidency to John Quincy Adams in the House of Representatives.
Political Maneuverings and Threats of Violence
Historically, politicians like John C. Calhoun, a senator from South Carolina, have used their political clout for personal gains. In the 1824 elections, partisans of Andrew Jackson threatened violence if their candidate lost, but when he did, they pledged support for Adams.
From Petty Politics to National Tragedy
The culmination of such political hostility was seen in the 1860s when Abraham Lincoln’s election led to the secession of Democratic states in the South and the Civil War, claiming over 600,000 American lives.
The Way Forward
Contrary to the fears stirred up by media, the current political climate is far from the tumultuous 1860s. The approaching 2024 election is expected to be fraught with petty squabbles, name-calling, and threats, just like any other. As citizens, we should emulate the Pennsylvania Jacksonians of 1824: fight for our candidates, respect the results, and gear up for the next election cycle.
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