Final answer:
The percentage of eligible voters that essentially handed William Henry Harrison his victory was 28 percent.
Step-by-step explanation:
The percentage of eligible voters that essentially handed William Henry Harrison his victory was 28 percent (Option C).
During the presidential election of 1840, Harrison's campaign strategists implemented several tactics to engage eligible voters, including massive parades, public speeches, and other forms of political rallies. These efforts boosted voter turnout, resulting in a significantly higher participation rate. However, it is important to note that only a minority of eligible voters(28 percent) actually voted, making it the percentage of voters who essentially handed him his victory.
It is crucial to analyze historical election data accurately to understand the impact of voter engagement and participation in determining an election's outcome.
Learn more about William Henry Harrison's victory