Heimler's History - Tensions of Slavery (1844 - Civil War)

Overview

• Focus: Tension from slavery from 1844 till the Civil War
• Key Proposal: Compromise of 1850

Background

• Mexican-American War: Acquisition of new territories raised the issue of slavery expansion.
• Wilmot Proviso: Proposed to prohibit slavery in any territory won; defeated in Congress.

Positions on Slavery Expansion

1. Southern Position

   • Slavery as a constitutional right.
   • Relied on Missouri Compromise (1820) to establish boundaries for slavery.
   • Desired extension of Missouri Compromise line to the Pacific Ocean.
   • Viewed restriction of slavery as a threat to Southern economy and way of life.

2. Free Soil Movement

   • Composed of Northern Democrats and Whigs.
   • Advocated for new territories to be free labor domains.
   • Some opposed black settlement, seeking white opportunity.
   • Included abolitionists who wanted to ban slavery everywhere.
   • Led to the formation of the Free Soil Party.

3. Popular Sovereignty

   • Proposed that residents of territories decide on slavery.
   • Seen as a middle ground but failed to satisfy either side.
   • Increased tension rather than resolving it.

Post-Mexican American War Tensions

• New territories (e.g., California, New Mexico) entered as free states, disrupting Senate balance.
• Threatened Southern interests and led to calls for secession.
• Balance in Senate crucial to allowing/dismissing anti-slavery legislation.

Compromise of 1850 (Proposed by Henry Clay)

• Mexican Cession divided into Utah and New Mexico with popular sovereignty.
• California admitted as a free state.
• Slave trade banned in Washington D.C.
• Stricter Fugitive Slave Law enforced.
• Temporarily eased tensions but problematic Fugitive Slave Law heightened Northern resistance.

Conclusion

• Overview of Unit 5 topic 4 of AP U.S. History.
• Importance of understanding tensions leading to the Civil War.

• Next Steps: Further videos on related topics in Unit 5.
• Call to Action: Encouragement to subscribe for more educational content.

Note

• Upcoming discussion on the complications of the Fugitive Slave Law and its impact on North-South relations.