The Alignment of Living Presidential Figures During the Civil War

Five former presidents were alive during the Civil War, each with a unique perspective and alignment, reflecting the intense divisiveness of the era. This article delves into the stance each of these presidents took in the face of the monumental conflict that defined the United States in the 1860s.

1. Martin Van Buren (1837-1841)

NY - 8th President of the United States (1837-1841)

Martin Van Buren, the oldest surviving president, emerged as an elder statesman post his presidency. He was a key leader in the Free Soil Party and an anti-slavery advocate. Despite his age, he remained vocal about abolition and supported Abraham Lincoln's policies. Known for his powerful stance against slavery, Van Buren advocated for a constitutional convention to address the issue. He passed away in 1862, leaving behind a legacy of principled anti-slavery views.

2. John Tyler (1841-1845)

VA - 10th President of the United States (1841-1845)

John Tyler became a secessionist and a delegate to the provisional Confederate Congress. His strong support for secession and his desire to tear Virginia from the Union made him a target of scorn in the North. Upon his sudden death in early 1862, the New York Herald declared, 'his treachery to the Union and its laws will prevent those persons in the North … from experiencing sorrow at his demise.' Tyler's legacy is closely tied to his support of secession, even to the point of likely leading to his death.

3. Millard Fillmore (1850-1853)

NY - 13th President of the United States (1850-1853)

After leaving the presidency, Millard Fillmore became a member of the Know Nothing Party. His efforts to secure a re-election in 1856 were unsuccessful. During the Civil War, Fillmore opposed many of Abraham Lincoln's policies but maintained his opposition to secession. He supported the Union and believed that it could be preserved by force if necessary. In the aftermath of Lincoln's assassination, Fillmore showed support for Andrew Johnson's reconstruction policies, although they were more sympathetic to the Southern states.

4. Franklin Pierce (1853-1857)

NH - 14th President of the United States (1853-1857)

Despite being a native of New Hampshire, Franklin Pierce strongly supported pro-slavery legislation throughout his political career. He believed in states' rights and supported slavery. His staunch opposition to the Union and Lincoln’s viewpoints led to significant animosity in the North. Pierce's legacy is marked by his vehement support for the Confederacy and his failure to reconcile with the Union side. Many scholars critique Pierce for his inability to address the growing tensions and his failure to foster unity.

5. James Buchanan (1857-1861)

PA - 15th President of the United States (1857-1861)

James Buchanan, having left office, suggested that the Constitution be amended on the issue of slavery to prevent a national conflict. During the war, Buchanan supported Lincoln's policies from a distance, living in retirement in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. His primary focus seemed to be on repairing his own legacy rather than supporting the Union effort. A pro-Southern Unionist, Buchanan's predictions for the Confederacy came true in 1861. In a letter to his nephew, he warned of the impending civil war and laid responsibility on those who initiated the attack on Fort Sumter. His controversial stance and perceived indifference during the crisis cemented his legacy as one of the least favorable U.S. presidents.