James Buchanan | Black Hills & Badlands - South Dakota

James Buchanan

  • James Buchanan
Sculptor: 
James Michael Maher

At the beginning of his term was the Dred Scott court case which stated that slaves were considered property. Despite being against slavery himself, Buchanan felt that this case proved the constitutionality of slavery. The North and West were hit hard by an economic depression called The Great Panic of 1857 but Buchanan took no action to help alleviate the depression. By the time of re-election, Buchanan had decided not to run again. He knew that he had lost support, and he was unable to stop the problems that would lead to secession. Buchanan is portrayed with hands held behind his back symbolizing timidity in the face of crisis. http://www.whitehouse.gov/about/presidents/jamesbuchanan

​Presidential Years: 1857-1861

Directions: 
Corner of 9th St. & Main St.