jan 1, 1854 - Modern Republican Party

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The Republican Party emerged in 1854 to combat the Kansas–Nebraska Act and the expansion of slavery into American territories.

The early Republican Party consisted of northern Protestants, factory workers, professionals, businessmen, prosperous farmers, and after 1866, former black slaves.

The party had very little support from white Southerners at the time, who predominantly backed the Democratic Party in the Solid South, and from Catholics, who made up a major Democratic voting block. While both parties adopted pro-business policies in the 19th century, the early GOP was distinguished by its support for the national banking system, the gold standard, railroads, and high tariffs.

The party opposed the expansion of slavery before 1861 and led the fight to destroy the Confederate States of America (1861–1865).

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