In the fifth episode of our second 10-part special season on U.S. Presidents, we look at James Buchanan, the 15th president of the United States. A seasoned statesman with decades of experience, Buchanan entered the White House as the nation teetered on the edge of crisis—and left it on the brink of civil war. His passive leadership, controversial support for the Dred Scott decision, and failure to confront secession have led many to rank him among the worst presidents in U.S. history. In this episode, we explore Buchanan’s life, his inaction in the face of disunion, and the legacy of a presidency defined by missed opportunities.

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