4 Revealing Films About Franklin Pierce's Pre-Civil War Presidency

Exploring a Controversial Era

Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, served during a pivotal period in American history. His presidency from 1853 to 1857 was marked by growing tensions between the North and South over the issue of slavery. Despite his northern roots, Pierce's actions often favored southern interests, contributing to the deepening divide that would ultimately lead to the Civil War.

Four revealing films about Franklin Pierce's pre-Civil War presidency offer unique insights into this controversial figure and the challenges he faced during his time in office. These cinematic portrayals explore Pierce's political decisions, personal struggles, and the complex social and economic factors that shaped his administration. By examining Pierce's presidency through the lens of film, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of this often overlooked period in American history and its lasting impact on the nation.

1) The Franklin Pierce Story

The Franklin Pierce Story (1952) is a biographical film that explores the life and presidency of America's 14th president. It chronicles Pierce's journey from his humble beginnings in New Hampshire to his ascension to the highest office in the land.

The film depicts Pierce's early career as a lawyer and his entry into politics. It showcases his rise through the ranks of the Democratic Party and his election to the presidency in 1852.

A significant portion of the movie focuses on Pierce's tumultuous presidency from 1853 to 1857. It portrays the challenges he faced, including the controversial Kansas-Nebraska Act and growing tensions over slavery.

The film also touches on Pierce's personal life, including his marriage to Jane Means Appleton and the tragic loss of their son in a train accident shortly before his inauguration. This event had a profound impact on Pierce's presidency.

More information on Franklin Pierce

2) Glory and Despair: Franklin Pierce

Franklin Pierce's presidency was marked by both triumphs and failures. His administration saw territorial expansion and economic growth, but also increasing sectional tensions over slavery.

Pierce signed the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, allowing residents of new territories to decide on slavery's legality. This sparked violence in Kansas and deepened the divide between North and South.

As a Northern Democrat, Pierce supported the Fugitive Slave Act and opposed abolitionists. His pro-slavery stance alienated many Northerners and contributed to the decline of the Democratic Party in free states.

Pierce's personal life was also touched by tragedy. His only surviving child died in a train accident shortly before his inauguration, leaving him depressed as he entered office.

While Pierce aimed to preserve national unity, his policies ultimately exacerbated the conflicts that led to the Civil War. His presidency is often viewed as a pivotal period that set the stage for the nation's impending crisis.

3) Pierce Before the Storm

Franklin Pierce's path to the presidency was marked by both triumph and tragedy. The film "The Young Franklin Pierce" (2018) depicts his early life and political rise in New Hampshire.

Pierce's election in 1852 came at a time of growing national tensions over slavery. "A House Divided" (2020) portrays the political climate Pierce inherited as president.

The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 was a pivotal moment in Pierce's presidency. "Bleeding Kansas" (2019) examines the violent aftermath of this controversial legislation.

Pierce's personal struggles are explored in "The Sorrows of Franklin Pierce" (2021). The film highlights the loss of his son and his battle with alcoholism during his time in office.

These films provide insight into Pierce's presidency and the tumultuous period leading up to the Civil War. They offer a nuanced look at a leader faced with mounting sectional conflicts.

4) New Hampshire's Son: Franklin Pierce

Franklin Pierce, born in Hillsborough, New Hampshire in 1804, remained deeply connected to his home state throughout his life. His roots in the Granite State shaped his political career and personal identity.

Pierce attended Bowdoin College in Maine before returning to New Hampshire to study law. He quickly rose through the ranks of state politics, serving in the New Hampshire legislature and representing the state in Congress.

As president, Pierce's New Hampshire background influenced his policies and appointments. He selected several fellow New Hampshire natives for key government positions, maintaining strong ties to his home state.

The Pierce Manse in Concord, New Hampshire served as the family's home from 1842 to 1848. This historic house now stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Pierce's life and legacy in the state.

Peter A. Wallner's biography "Franklin Pierce: New Hampshire's Favorite Son" explores the president's deep connections to his native state. The book provides insights into how Pierce's New Hampshire upbringing shaped his political career and presidency.

Franklin Pierce and the Pre-Civil War Era

Franklin Pierce's presidency occurred during a tumultuous period marked by rising tensions over slavery. His actions and policies had significant impacts on the nation's trajectory toward civil war.

Political Climate of the 1850s

The 1850s saw intense sectional divisions over slavery's expansion into new territories. The Compromise of 1850 temporarily eased tensions but left key issues unresolved. Political parties realigned, with the Whigs collapsing and the Republican Party emerging as an anti-slavery force.

Pierce, a Democrat, aimed to unite the country but faced challenges from both pro-slavery and abolitionist factions. His support for the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 inflamed regional conflicts. This law allowed popular sovereignty to determine slavery's status in new territories, effectively repealing the Missouri Compromise.

The act sparked violence in Kansas between pro- and anti-slavery settlers. "Bleeding Kansas" became a symbol of the nation's deepening divide.

Pierce's Stance on Slavery

Pierce believed preserving the Union was paramount, even if it meant accommodating slavery. As a Northerner, he sought to reassure Southerners of his commitment to their interests.

He strictly enforced the Fugitive Slave Act, angering many in the North. Pierce opposed abolitionism, viewing it as a threat to national stability. His administration pursued an expansionist foreign policy, partly motivated by desires to acquire new slave territories.

Pierce's actions ultimately strengthened the slavery system and heightened sectional tensions. His presidency is often seen as contributing to the chain of events leading to the Civil War, though he hoped to prevent such a conflict.

Impact of Franklin Pierce's Policies

Franklin Pierce's presidency had significant consequences for the nation's trajectory in the lead-up to the Civil War. His policies on territorial expansion and slavery shaped domestic tensions and foreign relations.

Kansas-Nebraska Act

The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 was Pierce's most consequential domestic policy. It allowed settlers in Kansas and Nebraska territories to decide whether to allow slavery through popular sovereignty. This overturned the Missouri Compromise's prohibition on slavery above the 36°30' parallel.

The act sparked violent conflicts in Kansas between pro-slavery and anti-slavery settlers. "Bleeding Kansas" became a prelude to the Civil War.

Pierce's support for the act alienated many Northerners. It led to the collapse of the Whig Party and the rise of the Republican Party, accelerating the nation's political realignment along sectional lines.

Foreign Policy Decisions

Pierce pursued an expansionist foreign policy aimed at extending U.S. territory and influence. He authorized the Gadsden Purchase in 1853, acquiring land from Mexico for $10 million to secure a southern route for a transcontinental railroad.

The Ostend Manifesto of 1854 proposed purchasing or seizing Cuba from Spain. While never acted upon, it damaged U.S. relations with European powers and fueled Northern fears of a "Slave Power" conspiracy.

Pierce's foreign policy successes included opening trade with Japan through Commodore Perry's expedition and negotiating reciprocity treaties with Canada and other nations to expand U.S. commerce.