Key Events and Figures Leading to the American Civil War

Unit 4.4 Notes

Uncle Tom’s Cabin

A novel written by Harriet Beecher Stowe, depicting the evil side of slavery, which influenced public opinion and heightened tensions between North and South.

Kansas-Nebraska Act

A law passed in 1854 that allowed popular sovereignty to determine slavery issues in the new territories, leading to violent conflicts known as 'bleeding Kansas'.

Dred Scott v. Sanford

A Supreme Court case where the ruling stated that slaves are not considered citizens but property, and that the Missouri Compromise is illegal.

Republican Party Development

The formation of a new anti-slavery party in the 1850s that opposed the expansion of slavery, comprised of Anti-Slavery Whigs, Anti-Slavery Democrats, and Free-Soilers.

Lincoln-Douglas Debates

A series of debates in 1858 between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas focusing on slavery, where Douglas won, but Lincoln gained national recognition.

John Brown’s Raid

An attempted uprising led by abolitionist John Brown at Harper’s Ferry to arm slaves, resulting in his capture and execution, making him a martyr for abolitionists.

Southern Secession

The withdrawal of Southern states from the Union following Lincoln’s election in 1860, fearing a government without their representation.

Confederate States of America

The government formed by the seceded Southern states before Lincoln took office, with Jefferson Davis as its elected president.