What best explains how Abraham Lincoln could win the US presidency in 1860 with only 40 percent of the nation's popular vote?

Answer 1

Abraham Lincoln won the US presidential race because the Democratic Party, a national party was split three ways and for all practical purposes had no chance. Other "parties" such as the Liberty Party were Democrats, as one example.Although the Republican Party was a new party, Lincoln appeared as moderate to most voters. This allowed the Republicans to have an easy Electoral College victory, despite the low popular vote percentage of Lincoln.

Answer 2

In 1860 there were four candidates each of whom received a substantial number of votes. Thus the vote was divided up into four parts.

Answer 3

The race was between more than two candidates. Lincoln may not have won an overall majority, but he won the most votes.