July 6, 1854

Michiganders gathered in Jackson and formed the national Republican party.

About 1,500 Whigs, Democrats and Free-Soilers opposed to the Kansas-Nebraska Act and the extension of slavery gathered near Jackson. Although an earlier group in Wisconsin called themselves Republicans, the Jackson group was the first to approve a statewide platform and nominate a slate of candidates.

Thank you Michigan History Magazine for this glimpse into our past. See more at www.michiganhistorymagazine.com.