Answer:
Lincoln's election was important because it was one of the major catalyst for the American Civil War.
Explanation:
By the time of the 1860 elections, the United States had became increasingly more divided over the issue of Slavery. Primarily over the expansion of Slavery unto the western states, mostly the ones acquired after the Mexican - American War (modern day California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah etc). Though Southern States like South Carolina succeeded before Lincoln's Inaugural Address (and his official inauguration) Lincoln's victory prompted many southern states to begin secession from the Union, and the Civil War that would follow.
