James Buchanan, the 15th president of the United States, is often considered one of the most forgettable presidents in American history. In fact, many students may not even know who he is or what his accomplishments were. However, teaching children about James Buchanan’s accomplishments can help them gain a deeper understanding of American history and the challenges that presidents face when attempting to lead the country towards progress and prosperity.
One of the most significant accomplishments of James Buchanan was his work in negotiating the Gadsden Purchase. In 1853, Buchanan traveled to Mexico to negotiate a land deal that would facilitate the construction of a southern transcontinental railroad. The agreement, which was known as the Gadsden Purchase, resulted in the ceding of parts of present-day Arizona and New Mexico to the United States. The acquisition of this land, which was rich in minerals and resources, helped to fuel the growth of the American economy in the years that followed.
Additionally, James Buchanan played an important role in the creation of the Pony Express. In the 1850s, communication between the East and West coasts of the United States was slow and unreliable, hindering the country’s economic growth. Buchanan became an advocate for a faster, more efficient method of communication and lobbied Congress to fund the creation of the Pony Express. This innovative postal service allowed mail to be delivered from Missouri to California in just 10 days, greatly improving communication and making it easier for people to do business across the country.
Finally, James Buchanan was a strong advocate for education and played a key role in the formation of the National Academy of Sciences. He believed that education was essential to the progress and well-being of the nation, and he pushed for increased funding for public schools. His early advocacy for science and scientific discoveries was also important as it laid the groundwork for many scientific advances in later years.
Teaching students about James Buchanan’s accomplishments can help them understand the historical context of American government and the challenges that presidents have faced throughout history. It can also give students a more nuanced understanding of leadership and encourage them to become more engaged citizens who are more willing to work towards improving their world.
