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Missouri Compromise
As America grew, so did slavery. Northern and southern politicians argued over whether certain states should be admitted. Henry Clay, also known as The Great Compromiser, figured out a solution that would leave both sides satisfied. He stated that Maine would be admitted as a free state and Arkansas would be open to slavery.He created the Missouri Compromise which was a series of laws that would help maintain balance between states. -
The Nullification Crisis
During 18 28 and 1832, Congress passed Tariffs which annoyed the South. They felt that tariffs were one sided and and refused to pay them with the help of John C. Calhoun.He said that any state was allowed to nullify a law that it declares unconstitutional. After the government refused their requests South Carolina threatened to secede. In the end, they compromised with a lower tariff. -
Compromise of 1850
Following the war with Mexico, people where debating as to whether the land acquired from Mexico would be a free, or slave state. Henry Clay stepped in made a compromise that benefited both sides again. He said that California would be made a free state and Congress was not allowed to pass laws banning slavery in any of the other places won from Mexico. -
Fugitive Slave Act of 1850
The Fugitive Slave Act was passed by Congress in 1850. It stated that all slaves that fled to the North were allowed to be captured and sent back. This act angered many abolitionists and and raised tensions. -
Bleeding Kansas 1855
In order to decide whether Kansas would be pro-slavery or anti-slavery, an election was held. Many people from neighboring pro-slavery countries came and voted illegally. As a result, Kansas became a slave state. However, abolitionists created their own government but were attacked by slavery supporters. As revenge, John Brown murdered many of his pro-slavery neighbors. -
Dred Scott Decision
Dred Scott was a slave that sued his owner for his freedom. he made the case that since he lived on free soil he should be freed. However, the court ruled that he was not freed because he lived in the North. The judge also ruled that the constitution supported slavery and the Dred Scott was property and therefore not allowed to be taken from his owner -
Attack on Harpers Ferry
John Brown planned an attack on Harpers Ferry which was an arsenal in Virginia. He planned to arm and inspire the slaves to fight. No slaves showed up to help him fight and as a result, he and his men were captured. Many Abolitionists praised John Brown as he was executed. -
The Election of 1860
Abraham Lincoln wins The Election of 1860 which causes the Southern states to secede.
