Why was slavery a key issue leading up to the Civil War?
A common explanation is that the Civil War was fought over the moral issue of slavery. In fact, it was the economics of slavery and political control of that system that was central to the conflict. A key issue was states’ rights.
Did Stephen Douglas support the Kansas-Nebraska Act?
Stephen Douglas, the sponsor of the Kansas-Nebraska Act as well as the most vocal supporter of popular sovereignty, was known as the “Little Giant” because of his small stature. The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 may have been the single most significant event leading to the Civil War.
What was the problem with the Kansas Nebraska Act?
The Kansas-Nebraska Act repealed the Missouri Compromise, created two new territories, and allowed for popular sovereignty. It also produced a violent uprising known as “Bleeding Kansas,” as proslavery and antislavery activists flooded into the territories to sway the vote.
Why did Kansas Nebraska Act fail?
The Kansas-Nebraska Act failed to end the national conflict over slavery. Antislavery forces viewed the statute as a capitulation to the South, and many abandoned the Whig and Democratic parties to form the REPUBLICAN PARTY. Kansas soon became a battleground over slavery.
Why was the Kansas Nebraska Act difficult for northerners to accept?
Correct answer: C. It opened slavery in territories that many had thought would stay free. Explanation: In essence, this made the Kansas-Nebraska act a repeal of the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which had said there would be no slavery north of latitude 36°30´ except for Missouri.
How many states were free in 1820?
At the time, there were 11 free states and 10 slave states. Southern congressmen feared that the entrance of Missouri as a free state would upset the balance of power between North and South, as the North far outdistanced the South in population, and thus, U.S. representatives.
Why did Douglas introduce the Kansas-Nebraska Act?
Douglas, wanting to ensure a northern transcontinental railroad route that would benefit his Illinois constituents, introduced a bill to organize the territory of Nebraska in order to bring the area under civil control.
Why did people support the Kansas-Nebraska Act?
It allowed people in the territories of Kansas and Nebraska to decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery within their borders. The Act served to repeal the Missouri Compromise of 1820 which prohibited slavery north of latitude 36°30´. In the pro-slavery South it was strongly supported.
Which state was the last to free slaves?
Mississippi
What did Stephen Douglas do in the Kansas-Nebraska Act?
In January 1854, Senator Stephen Douglas introduced a bill that divided the land west of Missouri into two territories, Kansas and Nebraska. He argued for popular sovereignty, which would allow the settlers of the new territories to decide if slavery would be legal there.
Why was the Kansas Nebraska Act so controversial quizlet?
The Kansas- Nebraska Act was controversial for several reasons. The bill asked Congress to divide the area into two territories: Nebraska in the north and Kansas in the south. As pro and anti-slavery forces flooded Kansas and Nebraska for control of state government, violence erupted.