NOV 2: California Holds First Presidential Election

Franklin Pierce. (Credit: Library of Congress)

On Nov. 2, 1852, California holds its first presidential election since its admission to the Union on Sept. 9, 1850. The Democratic nominee, New Hampshire Senator Franklin Pierce, won the state, defeating the Whig nominee, U.S. Army General Winfield Scott.

Pierce won the state by a margin of 6.27%.