Overview
This lecture covers the Compromise of 1850, its origins following the Mexican-American War, the debates over new territories, and the major provisions and outcomes of the compromise.
Background and Causes
- After the Mexican-American War, the U.S. gained new territory, raising questions about the expansion of slavery.
- Three main positions emerged: Wilmot Proviso (no slavery expansion), Calhoun Resolutions (slavery legal as property right), Cass’s popular sovereignty (settlers decide on slavery).
- Gold discovered in California in 1848 led to the Gold Rush and rapid population growth, creating instability and the urgent need for statehood.
Key Debates and Issues
- Major issues included the status of California, the rest of the Mexican Cession, extension of the Missouri Compromise line (3630), Texas border disputes, slavery in Washington D.C., and the Underground Railroad.
- Northern and Southern states disagreed sharply over these topics, increasing sectional tensions.
Legislative Process
- Henry Clay proposed the Compromise as a single "omnibus" bill, which failed to pass.
- After President Taylor's death, Millard Fillmore became president, making compromise more likely.
- Stephen A. Douglas succeeded by splitting the bill into separate parts that could pass individually.
Provisions of the Compromise of 1850
- Texas gave up disputed land to New Mexico, receiving $10 million in compensation.
- California was admitted as a free state.
- The remaining Mexican Cession was divided into Utah and New Mexico territories with popular sovereignty to decide on slavery.
- Slavery continued in Washington D.C., but the slave trade was banned there.
- A stricter Fugitive Slave Law was enacted, allowing the pursuit of runaway slaves into the North.
Outcomes and Significance
- The Compromise did not satisfy either side and increased sectional tensions, especially due to Northern resistance to the Fugitive Slave Law.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Popular Sovereignty — Idea that settlers in a territory decide for themselves on slavery.
- Wilmot Proviso — Proposal to prohibit slavery in territory acquired from Mexico.
- Fugitive Slave Law — Law requiring escaped slaves to be returned to owners, strengthened in 1850.
- Omnibus Bill — Legislative package combining multiple proposals.
- Mexican Cession — Lands ceded to the U.S. by Mexico after the war.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the major provisions and consequences of the Compromise of 1850.
- Prepare questions for class discussion or post on the class Facebook page.