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Wilmot Proviso
The govenment tried to prohibit slavery in the mexican cession and stop the spread of it. It didn't pass but the south was concerned. -
The Compromise of 1850
The four year debate over slavery in the area lead to a compromise. It kept both the north and the south satisfied and prevented a permanent split before the civil war. -
Uncle Tom's Cabin
Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote this book in an effort to end slavery. It caused more tension between the north and south. -
Kansas-Nebraska Act
The government said that people in this territory could decide if they would be a slave or free state. People for and against slavery began flooding into the area to vote. -
Bleeding Kansas
A small Civil War between pro and anti slavery. Lasted 4 months and caused 200 deaths. "Bleeding Kansas" became the anti-slavery rally cry for northerners and republicans. -
The Republican Party
The republican political party was formed.
Abraham Lincoln joined this party. -
Dred Scott Case
Dred Scott sued for his freedom. The ruling in the court said that African Americans were not citizens but property. This increased tension between northern and southern states. -
Lincoln-Douglass Debates
Lincoln and Douglass debated slavery. Lincoln was against slavery and lost the election but he became nationally famous. -
Raid on Harper's Ferry
John Brown led the attack. His plan was to stir up a slave revolt in Virginia and end slavery. It didn't work but he became a hero. -
The Election of 1860
Lincoln won the election. Southern states seceded and became the Confederate States of America. -
Fort Sumter
Lincoln told Davis that he was sending supplies to the fort. The south opened fire and the Union had to surrender. This was the start of the Civil War.
