The U.S. Presidential Election of 1860 was a pivotal event in American history, held on November 6. It featured four main candidates: Abraham Lincoln from the Republican Party, Stephen A. Douglas from the Northern Democratic Party, John C. Breckinridge from the Southern Democratic Party, and John Bell from the Constitutional Union Party. The election focused on issues like slavery and states' rights, reflecting deep national divisions. Abraham Lincoln won the election with a significant electoral majority, securing 180 out of 303 electoral votes, despite not appearing on the ballot in many Southern states. His victory intensified tensions between the North and South, ultimately leading to the American Civil War.