Men of anti-slavery proclivities held nonpartizan meetings and conventions.

The movement finally culminated in the famous Buffalo convention which gave birth to the Freesoil party.
The delegates of all political persuasions united on the one principle of opposition to slavery.

They adopted a ringing platform closing with the words: "Resolved, That we inscribe on our banner 'Free Soil, Free Speech, Free Labor, and Free Men,' and under it will fight on, and fight ever, until a triumphant victory shall reward our exertions." They accepted Van Buren as their candidate.

The vote at the ensuing election was more than fourfold that given to Birney in 1844.

The Van Buren supporters held the balance of power between Whigs and Democrats in twelve States.