6. “Bully” Brooks & His Bludgeon Senator Charles Sumner of Massachusetts delivered a blistering speech; “The Crime Against Kansas” He condemned proslavery men Congressman Preston S. Brooks of South Carolina opposed Sumner’s views. On May 22, 1856, Brooks clubbed Sumner with his cane until it broke at his senate desk. The Sumner-Brooks Clash was among the first blows of the Civil War

7. “Old Buck” vs. “The Pathfinder” Anti-foreignism and huge amounts of mudslinging played roles in the campaign. Democrats met in Cincinnati to nominate James Buchanan – “Old Buck” as their presidential candidate. Republican delegates met in Philadelphia and nominated John C. Fremont – “The Pathfinder.” The Know-Nothing Party – composed of mainly “old- stock” Protestants – nominated ex-president Millard Fillmore.