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The Compromise of 1850
The measures contained in this act caused a further divide between the North and South. The North did not want fugitive state law and the south more free slaves. -
Harriet Beecher
Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin is published. It becomes one of the most influential works to stir anti-slavery sentiments. -
Gadsden Purchase
Gadsden Purchase treaty is signed; U.S. acquires border territory from Mexico for $10 million. -
Missouri Compromise
The legislation repeals the Missouri Compromise of 1820 and renews tensions between anti- and proslavery factions. -
Kansas-Nebraska Act
Congress passes the Kansas-Nebraska Act, establishing the territories of Kansas and Nebraska. -
James Buchanan
James Buchanan is inaugurated as the 15th president. -
Lincoln comes to national attention
Abraham Lincoln comes to national attention in a series of seven debates with Sen. Stephen A. Douglas during Illinois state election campaign. -
Slave revolt
Abolitionist John Brown and 21 followers capture federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry, Va. (now W. Va.), in an attempt to spark a slave revolt. -
President Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln is elected president. -
The start of the civil war
South Carolina secedes from the Union