“Let chaos come.” From CNN’s Chief Political Correspondent Dana Bash, the fast-paced story of the extraordinary election that led to hundreds of murders, warfare in the streets of New Orleans, two governors of Louisiana — and changed the course of politics in our country. The Election of 1872 was the most contentious in American history. After both parties complained of corruption, neither candidate would concede, two governors claimed office and chaos erupted.

Rival newspapers engaged in a bitter war of words, politicians plotted to overthrow the government, and their supporters fought in the streets and attempted assassinations. The entire country watched in grim fascination as the wounds of the Civil War were ripped open and the promise of President Grant’s Reconstruction faltered in the face of violent resistance and the birth of the Ku Klux Klan. In this riveting book, Dana Bash and David Fisher tell the incredible, little-known story of the election that pushed democracy to the breaking point, and sparked historic events including: The Colfax Massacre, in which at least 150 Black men were killed by white supremacists The extraordinary train race from New York to New Orleans for control of the state government The election of the first black Congressman from Louisiana in the face of violent resistance The Supreme Court ruling that ended Reconstruction and became the foundation of Southern segregation, changing the American legal system for the next century Listeners will find eerie parallels to today's divided political landscape and leaders willing to seize power no matter the cost.

An eye-opening warning of what's at stake and what it takes to protect our democracy, this is a must-hear tale of America's deadliest election.

Amid the echoes of ballots and the fervor of campaigns, a shadow of violence loomed over one of America's pivotal moments. "America's Deadliest Election" delves into a time when democracy was tested by bloodshed, unraveling the events that led to this unprecedented chaos. As tensions soared and adversaries clashed, the nation stood at a dangerous crossroads, offering profound lessons on the fragility and resilience of democratic systems.

Understanding the factors leading to electoral violence enhances preparedness for future elections. Recognizing patterns of conflict fosters awareness and promotes peaceful democratic processes. Learning from history helps safeguard democratic values and ensures electoral integrity.

Set against the turbulent backdrop of an America fraught with divisiveness this book uncovers the shocking events of the nation\'s most violent election. It meticulously examines the sociopolitical factors that turned voters into combatants painting a vivid picture of a nation at war with itself. /n Through deeply researched narratives readers are introduced to the key figures and hidden motives that fueled this volatile period.

The book delves into both high-profile power struggles and grassroots conflicts offering a comprehensive understanding of how democracy faltered and struggled to regain its footing. /n Each chapter intricately weaves historical facts with compelling storytelling shedding light on the enduring consequences of this tumultuous election. The author invites readers to reflect on the lessons learned emphasizing the pressing need for vigilance in safeguarding democratic institutions against similar threats in the future.

/n By bridging past and present America\'s Deadliest Election" serves as a stark reminder of the potential perils when political ambitions overshadow the collective good. Readers are left reconsidering the delicate balance required to maintain democratic integrity amid societal pressures and factional divides.

The book offers an engaging narrative that combines historical depth with captivating storytelling making complex events accessible and compelling for readers of all backgrounds /n Plausible insights are drawn from meticulous research providing readers with a profound understanding of electoral violence and its implications for the stability of democratic institutions /n By highlighting lesser-known events and figures this work adds a fresh perspective to historical accounts encouraging reflection on contemporary political challenges and the ongoing fight to protect democracy.