APUSH events Period 5: 1844–1877

Mexican-American War

Started due to territorial tension leading to death of Americans. U.S. won and gained Southwest territory; sparked debate over slavery in new land.

Compromise of 1850

Because of new land gained from Mexican American War: California free, strict Fugitive Slave Law, popular sovereignty in new territories.

Dred Scott v. Sandford

Supreme Court said Black people weren’t citizens; Congress couldn’t ban slavery.

Election of 1860

Lincoln elected → South secedes, beginning of Civil War.

Emancipation Proclamation

Freed slaves in Confederate states; shifted war’s purpose to ending slavery.

13th, 14th, 15th Amendments

Abolished slavery, gave citizenship, and voting rights to Black men.

Compromise of 1877

Ended Reconstruction; federal troops removed from South.