The process in which eligible citizens vote to choose the president of the United States. In November 1860, it refers to the specific election that led to Abraham Lincoln's presidency.
Related terms
Campaigning: The actions taken by candidates during an election to persuade voters to support them.
Electoral College: A body of representatives who formally elect the President and Vice President based on the popular vote in each state.
Popular Vote: The total number of votes cast by individual citizens in an election.