The 14th President of the United States, Franklin Pierce, served from 1853 to 1857. Born in New Hampshire in 1804, Pierce was a Democrat and a lawyer before entering politics. He was known for his pro-Southern views and his support for the expansion of slavery, which ultimately led to his presidency being marred by controversy and division.
During Pierce's presidency, the United States faced growing tensions over the issue of slavery, particularly in the newly acquired territories from the Mexican-American War. Pierce supported the controversial Kansas-Nebraska Act, which allowed for the expansion of slavery into these territories based on popular sovereignty, further fueling tensions between the North and South.
One of the key national security challenges during Pierce's presidency was the ongoing conflict with Native American tribes in the West. The federal government's policies towards Native Americans during this time were marked by forced relocation and violence, leading to widespread suffering and loss of life among indigenous communities.
Despite his efforts to maintain peace and unity within the country, Pierce's presidency was ultimately overshadowed by the growing divide between the North and South over the issue of slavery. The tensions that emerged during his time in office would eventually culminate in the outbreak of the Civil War just a few years after he left office.
In terms of international relations, Pierce's presidency was marked by efforts to expand American influence and territory, particularly in Latin America and the Pacific. He oversaw the Gadsden Purchase, which added territory to the United States for the construction of a southern transcontinental railroad, further solidifying America's presence in the region.
Pierce's presidency also saw the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa with Japan, which opened up diplomatic and trade relations between the two countries. This marked an important step towards expanding American influence in the Pacific and establishing the United States as a global power.
In conclusion, the presidency of Franklin Pierce had a significant impact on national security and international relations during a tumultuous period in American history. His policies on slavery, Native American relations, and territorial expansion shaped the trajectory of the country and set the stage for the challenges that would come in the years following his presidency.
