Key Events Leading to the Civil War

Sectionalism

Southern loyalty to state over country led to secession.

Bleeding Kansas

Conflict resulted in 50-200 American deaths.

Charles Sumner

Congressman known for anti-slavery speech.

The Crime Against Kansas

Sumner's speech criticizing slavery and its supporters.

Dred Scott Case

Legal battle over Scott's freedom and citizenship.

Missouri Compromise

Declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court ruling.

Fort Sumter

Attack marking the start of the Civil War.

Texas Annexation

Texas joined as a slave state, alarming the North.

Mexican-American War

Conflict driven by territorial expansion and slavery issues.

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

Ended the Mexican-American War, ceded vast territories.

Compromise of 1850

California admitted as free state with conditions.

Popular Sovereignty

Allowed territories to decide on slavery status.

Stephan Douglass

Proposed popular sovereignty for Nebraska territory.

Minnesota Statehood

Minnesota became a state in 1858.

Oregon Statehood

Oregon became a state in 1859.

Abolitionists

Activists opposing slavery, supporting Dred Scott.

Union Advantages

20,000 railroad miles compared to 10,000 Confederate.

Southern Generals

Confederate forces led by skilled military leaders.

Economic Disparity

North produced 90% of goods, impacting war efforts.

Manifest Destiny

Belief in U.S. expansion, led to conflict with Mexico.

Polk's Presidency

Accused of disregarding Mexico for expansionist goals.