Franklin Pierce

(1804 - 1869 )

Who was Franklin Pierce ?

    Franklin Pierce was born in New Hampshire. He studied law, and at age 24 was elected to the New Hampshire legislature. Several years later, he served in the House of Representatives, then in the Senate.

    Pierce became the "dark horse" Presidential candidate after 48 ballots. He won by just over 200,000 popular votes, but with a seemingly overwhelming 254 to 42 electoral vote count. President Pierce was elected on the platform of support for the Compromise of 1850, but at his inauguration, he stated that foreign relations and the acquisition of additional land may be necessary for the survival of the United States. This angered some northerners, who feared that Pierce may be looking to extend slavery into whatever new territories were gained.

Franklin Pierce

(1804 - 1869 )

Who was Franklin Pierce ?

    Franklin Pierce was born in New Hampshire. He studied law, and at age 24 was elected to the New Hampshire legislature. Several years later, he served in the House of Representatives, then in the Senate.

    Pierce became the "dark horse" Presidential candidate after 48 ballots. He won by just over 200,000 popular votes, but with a seemingly overwhelming 254 to 42 electoral vote count. President Pierce was elected on the platform of support for the Compromise of 1850, but at his inauguration, he stated that foreign relations and the acquisition of additional land may be necessary for the survival of the United States. This angered some northerners, who feared that Pierce may be looking to extend slavery into whatever new territories were gained.