Events Leading to the Civil War

Wilmot Proviso

Jan 1, 1846

Designed to eleminate slavery within the land acquired as a result of Mexican-American War. (Lasted through 1848)

Compromise of 1850

Jan 29, 1850

Five seperate bils passed by the U.S. senate, which defused the confrantation between free and slave states.

"Uncle Tom's Cabin" is first published

Mar 20, 1852

Novel that helped lay the groundwork for the Civil War.

Kansas-Nebraska Act

Jan 1, 1854

An act that let settlers decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery within their borders.

John Brown's Massacre at Pottawatomie Creek

May 25, 1856

At Pottawatomie Creek, five men were dragged from their cabins and massacred by John Brown and his sons.

Dred Scott Decision

Jan 1, 1857

Dred Scott (slave) tries to sue a white man, but is not allowed to have rights.

Lincoln-Douglas Debate "A house divided against itself can not stand."

Jun 16, 1858

Abraham Lincoln gave a speech about his opinion on slavery.

John Brown's Raid at Harpers Ferry, Virginia

Oct 16, 1859

An attack to initiate on armed slave revolt. (Lasted till the 18th of October.)

Abraham Lincoln is elected as a Republican President

Nov 6, 1860

Abraham Lincoln was elected the 16th president.

South Carolina Secedes from the Union

Dec 20, 1860

This started a new era for slavery.

Confederate States of America are formed

Jan 1, 1861

In 1861, South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Loisiana, and Texas.

Confederate Troops Fire at Fort Sumter, South Carolina

Apr 12, 1861

Confederate forces open attacked on the Union. (Lasted till the 14th of April.)