Bleeding Kansas and Political Retaliation

Events Following Antislavery Actions

Retaliation for Antislavery Efforts: To instill fear in antislavery towns and prevent Kansas from becoming a free state.
Potawatomi Massacre: John Brown and his band retaliated, leading to the Potawatomi Massacre (p o t t a w a t o m I e).

Bleeding Beyond Kansas: The conflict extended beyond Kansas, reaching the Senate.
Key Figures: Introduction of Preston Brooks and Charles Sumner.

Charles Sumner's Speech: Abolitionist Senator Charles Sumner from Massachusetts delivered a two-day speech known as "The Crime Against Kansas."
- He condemned slavery and its supporters.
- He accused Southerners of trying to make Kansas a slave state.
- He verbally attacked other congressmen by name.
Attack on Senator Andrew Butler: Sumner was particularly abusive towards Senator Andrew Butler of South Carolina.
- He mocked Butler's pro-slavery beliefs.
- He made fun of Butler's speech impediment.

Preston Brooks's Response: Preston Brooks, a relative of Senator Butler, confronted Sumner in the Senate chamber.
- Brooks accused Sumner of libel against South Carolina and Senator Butler.
Violent Assault: Before Sumner could respond, Brooks beat him repeatedly with his cane until Sumner was unconscious, and the cane broke during the assault.

Sumner's Injuries: Sumner suffered brain damage and was unable to return to his Senate seat for three years.
Brooks's Relation: Butler's nephew was Congressman Preston Brooks.