Antebellum Period Key Terms and Events

These flashcards cover key terms and events related to the antebellum period, focusing on the Texas Revolution and the violent conflict exemplified by the caning of Senator Sumner.

Antebellum

Refers to the period in American history before the Civil War, characterized by significant social, political, and economic changes.

Stephen F. Austin

An American empresario who brought many families to settle in Texas and became a key figure in the Texas Revolution.

Texas Revolution

A rebellion of colonists from the United States and Tejanos against Mexican rule in Texas that resulted in Texas gaining independence in 1836.

Caning of Senator Sumner

A violent incident in May 1856 when Congressman Charles Preston Brooks attacked Senator Charles Sumner on the Senate floor, symbolizing the intense sectional conflict over slavery.

Brooks-Sumner incident

The attack on Senator Sumner by Congressman Brooks, highlighting the deep divisions in American society regarding slavery.

Pro-slavery faction

Groups and individuals who supported the continuation and expansion of slavery in the United States.

Anti-slavery faction

Groups and individuals who opposed slavery and sought to end its practice and expansion in the United States.

Civil War foreshadowing

Events such as the caning of Sumner are seen as precursors to the violent conflicts that would erupt during the Civil War.

National uproar

The intense public reaction to the caning of Senator Sumner, reflecting the polarized views on slavery in America.

Symbol of aggression

Brooks became a symbol of Southern aggression and the brutal defense of slavery after his attack on Sumner.