What is the significance of the Republican Party?

Today, the Republican Party controls the House of Representatives and balances the Democratic held Senate and White House. At times, it seems to be stalling most legislation.

Check these sites for information about the Republican Party history.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_United_States_Republican_Party

http://www.gop.com/our-party/our-history/

The Republican Party is significant because it was a major force in the North, and fought against the opponents of slavery.

Is my answer correct?

Your answer only gives its significance during the Civil War time. It ignores the rest of its history over its 100-year-plus history.

But I'm only supposed to provide the significance of the Republican Party during the Civil War time period.

Oh. It's too bad you didn't make that clear in your original question. :-(

Oh. I'm sorry. It was my mistake.