a) James Buchanan

James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States and the only bachelor president, is often ranked among the worst presidents for his handling of the secession crisis. Buchanan’s presidency, which immediately preceded the Civil War, was marked by his inability to address the escalating conflict between the North and the South. His indecisiveness and lack of effective leadership during this critical period are frequently cited as contributing factors to the outbreak of the Civil War. Buchanan’s legacy is a stark reminder of the impact presidential decisions can have on the nation’s course.