Drama Leading to Secession

What core conflicts divided the nation leading up to the Civil War?

Disputes over slavery and competing views on states' rights.

What was the nullification crisis?

A conflict during which South Carolina resisted federal authority.

What significant legislation was part of the Compromise of 1850?

California's admission as a free state and the Fugitive Slave Act.

What was the Georgia Platform?

An agreement by state leaders to conditionally support the Compromise of 1850 to preserve the Union.

What was the outcome of the 1857 Dred Scott decision?

It ruled that African Americans could not be American citizens and had no standing to sue.

What was the significance of the election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860?

It alarmed the South and escalated tensions leading to secession.

What were the contrasting positions in Georgia's secession debate?

Unionist stance led by Alexander Stephens versus secessionist arguments from leaders like Robert Toombs.

What happened in Georgia in January 1861?

Georgia held a formal vote to secede from the Union.