The Stakes of Elections: Past and Present

This chapter analyzes the recurring rhetoric of elections being the 'most important of our lifetime,' using historical examples to illustrate its impact on voter engagement and public perception. It draws connections between pivotal elections, such as 1932 during the Great Depression and the 1860 election leading to the Civil War, highlighting the ideological and existential stakes involved. The discussion emphasizes key moments that shaped American democracy, including the 1800 election's precedent for peaceful power transitions, underscoring the ongoing relevance of historical contexts in contemporary political discourse.