Heimler's History: Failure of Compromise over Slavery

Context

The Compromise of 1850 temporarily alleviated tensions over slavery but failed in the long term.
America continued expanding west, raising questions about slavery in new territories.

Proposal:
- Senator Stephen Douglas proposed dividing the northern section of the Louisiana Purchase into Kansas and Nebraska.
- Introduced popular sovereignty to decide slavery in these territories.
Reaction:
- Angered Northerners as it overturned the Missouri Compromise of 1820.
Consequences:
- "Bleeding Kansas": Violence erupted between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions.
- Illegitimate votes from pro-slavery Missourians led to dual legislatures in Kansas (pro-slavery in Compton, anti-slavery in Topeka).
- President Pierce recognized the pro-slavery government, worsening tensions.

Case:
- Dred Scott, an enslaved man, sued for his freedom after living in free territories.
Supreme Court Decision:
- Ruled against Scott, citing:
  1. Scott was not a citizen and had no right to sue.
  2. Slavery as property could not be restricted by Congress.
Impact:
- Opened all territories and states to slavery, fueling tensions toward civil war.

Collapse of the Two-Party System:
- Whig Party divided into Cotton Whigs (pro-slavery) and Conscience Whigs (anti-slavery).
- Democratic Party grew as a pro-slavery regional party.
Formation of the Republican Party (1854):
- Coalition of Know-Nothings, abolitionists, Free Soilers, Conscience Whigs.
- Stance: Prevent slavery's expansion into new territories.
Southern Reaction:
- Saw Republicans as a threat to slavery.
- Republican success in 1858 midterms alarmed the South as the 1860 presidential election approached.

The failure of compromises over slavery indicated an impending civil conflict.
The political landscape was deeply affected, leading to heightened regional tensions.

For further study, explore more videos on Unit 5 and consider additional resources for exam preparation.