I am amazed that a Brit would have that knowledge of American politics regarding the situation 130 years ago. You're absolutely correct about it. I sort of made Garfield my upper division history course hobby, but I'd think less than 1 in 1000 Americans would have the knowledge you shared in a few short sentences in your post.
I realize I'm not addressing the moral of your story. I'm not sure I'm in the mood to get into the middle of this food fight tonight. After all, it will continue for many long more months. I'm quickly losing my desire to post here at all until a truce is called.
But I couldn't help myself from complimenting you on your knowledge of American history. I own a bazillion history books from my undergraduate days, but I couldn't tell you who the PM was in 1880 England, that's for sure.
My thanks.
Regards, Ivan