Causes of Civil War

A. Westward expansion forced our gov. to deal with the issue of slavery Missouri Compromise (1820) established a “dividing line” between slave and free (north and south). Wilmot Proviso said “no slavery in the new territories.” It didn’t pass, but its ideas increased tension.

Expansion causes tension (cont.) Compromise of 1850 CA would enter as a free state Popular sovereignty would determine slavery in the Mex. Cession No more slave trading in Washington D.C. A more effective fugitive slave law will be passed.

B. Fugitive Slave Act Made it a federal crime to help runaway slaves. Was used unfairly and created fear in hearts of northern African-Americans Many northerners resisted the Act

Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe A fictional anti-slave novel that exposed the evils of slavery - Southerners said it was unrealistic – “why would we beat our slaves to death?!” - Northerners “woke up” and became abolitionists

“Bleeding Kansas” (see pg. 160) Kansas-Nebraska Act declares popular sovereignty in this territory. “Border ruffians” from Missouri flooded the polls to vote for slavery. Violence erupts after abolitionists set up their own government nearby.

Violence in the Senate Preston Brooks beats Charles Sumner almost to death after he verbally attacked slavery and the Kansas issue. This further divides our government.

Supreme Court decides: Dred Scott Decision Supreme Court decides: Scott is not a citizen, so he can’t sue. Scott is property that cannot be taken from a slaveholder – 5th Amendment rights. BIG victory for pro-slavery people!

John Brown and his “calling” Northerner’s support leads him to stage an uprising at Harper’s Ferry. It was unsuccessful, but created further divisions Northerners mourned the death of a hero Southerners persecuted any/all abolitionists

Lincoln Elected = Last Straw Wasn’t even on the ballot in most southern states – didn’t get one electoral vote from them With the “enemy” in the white house, many states secede from the union and form their own country – The Confederate States of America – with Jefferson Davis as their new President