The Contenders for Second Worst President: A Comparative Analysis

When discussing the history of the United States and its presidencies, it is inevitable to delve into the performance of some of its leaders.

Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, and Donald Trump have often been associated with some of the worst presidencies in history. In this article, we will compare these four to determine who should be considered the second worst president, after Donald Trump, based on their historical contributions and impact.

Franklin Pierce (1853-1857)

Franklin Pierce, the 14th and 15th president of the United States, faced substantial challenges during his presidency. Often criticized for his lack of experience in politics, Pierce’s administration was marked by poor decision-making that didn’t address the growing divisions between the North and South. Traditionally considered among the worst presidents, Pierce's presidency is remembered for contributing to the outbreak of the American Civil War.

Key Challenges During Pierce's Presidency

His reluctant support for the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which stirred up pro-slavery clashes and tensions in Kansas and contributed to the Civil War. A failure to address the increasing economic challenges, including the Panic of 1857, which crippled the nation's economy. His poor relations with Congress and the public, which led to his party not seeking his re-nomination in 1856.

These decisions and actions ultimately tarnished Pierce's presidential legacy and his standing among historians.

James Buchanan (1857-1861)

James Buchanan, the 15th president, occupies the same legacy space as Pierce due to his inability to resolve the pre-Civil War tensions. Buchanan, a moderate and a devoted unionist, did little to prevent the impending conflict by failing to propose a solution to the crises over slavery, such as allowing states to choose their status on the issue or proposing a national referendum.

Known Issues During Buchanan's Presidency

He did not address the Dred Scott decision, which declared the rights of slaves to their status as property. Buchanan failed to take decisive action during the Bleeding Kansas conflict in the 1850s. Buchanan's handling of the approach of the Civil War and his lack of proactive measures led to his vice-president, Andrew Johnson, taking the reins as the first President to be impeached by the House of Representatives, though not convicted by the Senate.

His term marked a significant ideological failure for the Union and the nation, solidifying his reputation as one of the worst presidents in American history.

Andrew Johnson (1865-1869)

Andrew Johnson, the 17th president, served as the first Vice President to take the office following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. However, his term was marred by constant power struggles with Congress and an unsteady vision for Reconstruction. Johnson’s actions led to impeachment and, although he narrowly escaped conviction, his tenure was one of the most chaotic and destructive in presidential history.

Key Issues During Johnson's Presidency

Johnson's Reconstruction policies were largely vetoed by Congress, leading to contentious relationships. His opposition to black voting rights and support for Radical Republican measures led to significant political strife. Johnson’s impeachment was the result of failing to enforce the Tenure of Office Act, where he attempted to fire Secretary of War Edwin Stanton without Senate approval.

These actions demonstrated Johnson's inability to navigate the complex political landscape of his time effectively.

Donald Trump (2017-2021)

Donald Trump, the 45th president, has been a polarizing figure both during and after his tenure. Trump’s lack of political experience, controversial policies, and repeated impeachment attempts place him at the very top of worst presidents list. However, questions remain about who holds the second place.

Performance and Impact of Trump's Presidency

Trump's weak policies and alienation of the international community Inappropriate language and rhetoric, which led to numerous controversies, including inciting violence during the Capitol insurrection Impeachments: Triumphs in impeachment were largely partisan, indicating a deep divide in political ideologies. Economic management: While there were periods of economic growth, indicators like debt and inflation showed weaknesses in economic leadership.

His presidency featured numerous controversies and not enough proactive solutions to pressing national challenges.

Conclusion

While Franklin Pierce and James Buchanan may be considered the contenders for the second worst president position, the reality remains that the assessment is largely subjective and dependent on historical context and the criteria used. Whether it's the poor handling of pre-Civil War conflicts for Pierce or Buchanan’s inability to prevent the conflict, these presidents share a connection with the failure to adequately address the political and economic issues of their times.

Andrew Johnson and Donald Trump also occupy this dubious distinction. Johnson’s constant struggles with Congress and his approach to Reconstruction, despite some positive actions, still rank him among the worst. Meanwhile, Trump, with his lack of political experience and numerous controversies, solidifies his standing as a divisive leader. As we reflect on these prominent figures, it is clear that the evaluation of their presidencies often hinges on how their decisions and actions influenced the nation’s trajectory.

Keywords: second worst president, Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan