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Importation of slaves ends
Political
It was a legal changed that was mandated by the Constitution, it reflected a changed in federal policy to finalize international slave trade, even though it did not have an effect of domestic slavery or westward Expansion directly. -
The Missouri Compromise/ The Compromise of 1820
Political / Economic
This was an agreement that balance slave and free states as the new territories were added to the Westward, it was guided by political negotiations to control Congressional power, and economically altered by the need for agricultural labor in new regions. -
The Wilmot Proviso
Political
A proposed law to ban slavery in territories acquired from Mexico, it sparked political debate over slavery's expansion Westward but was never passed. -
The Compromise of 1850
Political / Economic
The series of bills aimed to balance slave and free state interests as the U.S. expanded Westward, with economic implications for slave-based agriculture in new territories. -
The Fugitive Slave Act
Political / Social
Enforced the return of escaped slaves, intensifying social tensions over slavery and politically reinforcing slave-holding states' power as Westward settlement increased. -
Uncle Tom's Cabin
Social
Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel heightened public awareness and moral opposition to slavery, influencing social attitudes as the nation expanded Westward. -
The Kansas Nebraska Act
Political / Economic
Allowed territories to decide on slavery, leading to Westward Expansion conflicts, driven by political compromise and economic interests in farming. -
Bleeding Kansas
Social / Political
Violent clashed over slavery in Kansas reflected social divisions and political struggles as settlers moved Westward. -
The Caning of Charles Summer
Social / Political
This violent attack on an abolitionist senator highlighted escalating social tensions and political polarization over slavery during Westward Expansion. -
The Dred Scott Decision
Political / Legal
The Supreme Court ruled that slaved were property, not citizens, impacting political debated and legal frameworks as slavery expanded westward.