Martin Van Buren wins the 1836 United States presidential election

Background. The Whig Party emerged as the chief opposition to the Democratic Party during the 1834 mid-term elections. Van Buren's competitors in the 1836 election were four Whig members, bound by opposition to Jackson's anti-bank policies. The Anti-Masonic Party declined to sponsor a national ticket for the 1836 election, proposing a future meeting to discuss its future.

Nomination. Andrew Jackson declined to seek another term in 1836 but remained influential. With Jackson's support, Van Buren won the presidential nomination of the 1835 Democratic National Convention without opposition. The convention chose a ticket of Van Buren, Jackson's handpicked successor, and a vice presidential candidate.

Results. Presidential elections were held from November 3 to December 7, 1836. Van Buren successfully ran for president with Jackson's support and the Democratic Party's organizational strength. Harrison finished second in both the popular and electoral vote. His strong performance helped him win the Whig nomination in the 1840 presidential election.