Question

part b
which factor contributed most to abraham lincoln’s victory?
(not all factors described are accurate—see map for details.)
a western territories supported abraham lincoln.
b southern states were split between two democratic candidates.
c border states sided with the north and supported abraham lincoln.
d northern states had higher populations, giving them more electoral votes.
electoral college of 1860
popular vote
total: 4,685,531
electoral vote
total: 303
key
territories
lincoln (republican)
breckinridge (democrat)
douglas (democrat)
bell (constitutional union)

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze electoral vote data

From the pie chart, Lincoln won 180 electoral votes (60% of total 303). The map shows Lincoln carried most Northern states.

Step2: Relate population to electoral votes

Electoral votes are allocated based on state population. Northern states, more populous, had more electoral votes.

Step3: Eliminate incorrect options

• A: Western territories (uncolored on map) had no electoral votes, so they couldn't support Lincoln.
• B: Southern states mostly voted for Breckinridge (red), not split between two Democrats.
• C: Border states (MO, KY, MD, DE) voted for Bell/Breckinridge, not Lincoln.

Answer:

D. Northern states had higher populations, giving them more electoral votes.