Review of American Expansion and the Slavery Debate

This set of flashcards encompasses key concepts, events, and figures related to American expansion and the contentious issues surrounding slavery leading up to the American Civil War.

What was the purpose of the Missouri Compromise?

To maintain the balance between free and slave states as new states were added to the Union.

In what year did Missouri apply for statehood as a slave state?

1820 (the missouri compromise)

What was a significant outcome of the Missouri Compromise related to the Louisiana Purchase?

Slavery was banned in the Louisiana Purchase Territory north of latitude 36°30', while it was allowed south of that line.

What was the main reason for the American Texans' revolt against the Mexican government?

The enforcement of Mexican laws that freed slaves and prohibited further American immigration into Texas.

Who led the Texan army to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto?

Sam Houston.

What was the 'Manifest Destiny'?

The belief that it was America's divine right to expand across the continent.

What event triggered the war between the USA and Mexico?

The USA's annexation of Texas and disputed boundaries.

What was the primary advantage of the USA during the Mexican War?

A larger population, superior industrial base, and better military organization.

What did the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo accomplish?

It ceded California and New Mexico to the USA for $15 million and settled claims against Mexico.

What was the Wilmot Proviso?

A proposal to ban slavery in any territory gained from Mexico.

What compromise was suggested by John C. Calhoun regarding slavery in the territories?

The doctrine that citizens from any state had the right to take their 'property' (slaves) into any territory.

What was 'popular sovereignty'?

The idea that the people living in a territory should decide whether or not to allow slavery.

What significant political event occurred during the election of 1848?

Zachary Taylor won the presidency, influencing National policies on slavery.

What was the primary component of the Compromise of 1850?

California was admitted as a free state, while other territories had no restriction on slavery.

What was the impact of Uncle Tom's Cabin?

It galvanized anti-slavery sentiment in the North and raised awareness about the brutality of slavery.

Who were the main candidates in the 1852 presidential election?

Franklin Pierce for the Democrats and Winfield Scott for the Whigs.

What was the Gadsden Purchase?

The acquisition of land from Mexico to facilitate a Southern railway.

Which legislation is often associated with causing violence in Kansas?

The Kansas-Nebraska Act.

What did the Kansas-Nebraska Act replace?

The Missouri Compromise.