A New Beginning: 1860 Republican National Convention (Vice-Presidential Nomination (Ballot #2) and Presidential Ticket)

Background

The 1860 Republican National Convention's vice-presidential nomination was a closely contested race with 466 total delegates and a threshold of 234 delegates needed to secure the nomination. The primary contenders were Vice President Thaddeus Stevens, Postmaster General Cassius Marcellus Clay, and Maine Senator Hannibal Hamlin. As the second ballot unfolded, the political landscape was charged with anticipation. On the second ballot, Vice President Thaddeus Stevens emerged victorious, securing 237 votes, just 3 votes above the critical 234-delegate threshold. His main competitors, Postmaster General Cassius Marcellus Clay and Maine Senator Hannibal Hamlin, received 149 and 80 votes respectively. Stevens' narrow win meant he would join Secretary of War Abraham Lincoln on the 1860 Republican Presidential ticket, solidifying their partnership in what would become a pivotal moment in American political history.

1860 Republican Presidential Ticket

Presidential Nominee: Secretary of War Abraham Lincoln of Illinois

Secretary of War Abraham Lincoln of Illinois

Vice-Presidential Nominee: Vice President Thaddeus Stevens of Pennsylvania

Vice President Thaddeus Stevens of Pennsylvania