Was James Buchanan violent

Answer 1

The term of "violent" regarding an individual's social behavior can be determined by the person's actions. With regards to violent public policies that can speak to the views & policies of a political figure such as US President James Buchanan, there is evidence that his views did lead to violence even if that was not his intent. With that said, we look for an "opinion" on the question.

Here are some of his policies that led to violence:

1. His refusal to attempt to work hard to avoid what became a civil war; and

2. By endorsing the concept of popular sovereignty, he recommended that Congress approve a pro-slavery Kansas. This became a "bleeding Kansas, however he did not endorse the violence by any means.

The above states the facts. It would be wrong in many minds to look back with 20-20 vision and judge this man. A better idea is surely not to judge him. He did not advocate violence.

Now, saying this, leads us directly to his successor, President Lincoln. Violence played a role in his policies. This however is only mentioned to give pause to those who ask if Buchanan was a violent person in his policies.