Third-Party System

Definition

The Third-Party System refers to the period in American political history from about 1854 to the mid-1890s that was characterized by the emergence of the anti-slavery Republican Party, which adopted many of the economic policies of the Whigs, such as national banks, railroads, high tariffs, homesteads and aid to land grant colleges.

Related terms

Republican Party: A major political party in America that emerged in 1854 to combat the Kansas–Nebraska Act which threatened to extend slavery into the territories, and to promote more vigorous modernization of the economy.

Whig Party: An American political party active between 1833 and 1856 whose platform was based on promoting industry and internal improvements but split over slavery issue.

Kansas–Nebraska Act: An act passed by Congress in 1854 allowing settlers in newly organized territories north of Missouri border to decide on slavery issue.