The actual timing of the rise and fall of American political parties is as follows:
The Federalists formed in 1787 to support the Constitution
The Anti-Federalists formed in 1787 to oppose the Constitution
The Anti-Federalists dissolved in 1789 as its purpose became moot.
Federalists continue as supporters of Washington
Republicans (Democratic Republicans) formed around 1795 to oppose Adams and Federalists
Federalists dissolve after 1816 after opposing War of 1812
Democratic Republicans cease to function being without opposition
Democrats form around Jackson after election of 1824
National Republicans form around Clay Webster and Harrison aftter election of 1828
National Republicans founder after election of 1832
Whigs form as coalition of National Republicans Anti Masons, and a few remaining Federalists in 1833
Whigs dissolve after Presidential Election of 1852 and deaths of Webster and Clay in that year over extension of slavery.
Republicans form in 1854 from northern Whigs and anti-slavery Democrats.
American (Know-Nothings) formed in 1854 from southern Whigs and nativist Democrats.
American Party dissolves in 1858 in Civil War Crisis, members joined Republicans or southern Democrats.
No major party has failed or started since 1860. No major party has ever formed when two major parties existed (the Republican and American parties formed when there was one established party, the Democrats, and the three parties lasted through one Presidential cycle).
“We don’t run from history. We MAKE history!”
Only kidding,LCS,I couldn’t resist.The historical recap is very interesting. The book I’m reading now is A Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin, about Lincoln, the 1860 election, and his Cabinet composed of his rivals, during the Civil War.
I don’t believe the GOP leadership will alow any inroads by conservatives, even if it means the salvation of the party. That is one of the lessons of the 2008 election that is now staring us in the face. The silence of GOP leaders, including McCain, on the savaging of Palin speaks volumes if one is listening.
They need to go into the dustbin of history. The Republic needs saving, not Republicans.