A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER "Snappy and accessible prose... America’s Deadliest Election is the kind of book that might generate fresh interest in our country’s brief post-Civil War attempt at creating a multiracial democracy. " — The Washington Post The violent election of 1872 that serves as a warning for today's divided politics.

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 Readers 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-read tale of America's deadliest election.

In the heart of America, where democracy and freedom are celebrated, a shadow once loomed large as the nation faced its most tumultuous election. The backdrop wasn't just political rivalry or differing ideologies it was marked by unparalleled violence and turmoil. As tensions escalated, citizens found themselves at the crossroads of fear and determination, facing a reality where their very voices risked being drowned out by the noise of chaos.

This is a narrative not only of a historic election but also a reflective tale highlighting the fragility of democracy. By revisiting this dark chapter, the book weaves a compelling exploration of the underlying issues that led to such unprecedented disruption and aims to resonate with contemporary significance.

Historical analysis of the most violent election reveals lessons of resilience and the enduring spirit of democracy. Examines socio-political factors leading to violence and offers a cautionary perspective on electoral integrity. Provides insights into bridging divides through dialogue and understanding future democratic challenges.

This book delves into an election year that changed the course of American history showcasing the lethal consequences of political extremism. Readers are taken back to tense days filled with fear and uncertainty illustrating the underlying currents that drove citizens to the brink. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling the author reconstructs the atmosphere surrounding this critical event capturing the raw emotions of those who lived through it.

The narrative analyzes how political ambitions turned brutal and highlights key figures whose actions ignited great upheaval. By examining the calculated moves and unpredictable turns the book provides an enlightening perspective on the dynamics of power and public response.

The book brings together historical records and personal stories to paint a vivid picture of a nation on edge. Its engaging prose and detailed narrative style pull readers into the depths of an often overlooked chapter in history. Unlike many historical recounts this work emphasizes learning from past mistakes focusing on hope and reconciliation for a brighter future.