In several key instances, the sectional issues involved arguments over states’ rights (e.g., the Tariff of Abominations, the Webster-Hayne Debate of 1830, the Nullification Crisis of 1832-33). One sectional issue in particular – the extension of slavery – prompted much debate in the 1840s and 1850s (e.g., the Wilmot Proviso, the Compromise of 1850, the Kansas-Nebraska Act). The debate over this issue culminated with the South’s exercise of the ultimate states’ right – secession.
All of the above links to the online textbook will help you answer the following questions.
.What is the idea of Popular Sovereignty?
What was proposed in the Kansas-Nebraska Act? How is it different than the Missouri Compromise or the Compromise of 1850?
Describe what happened in Kansas as a result of the Kansas-Nebraska Act.
How is the aftermath of the Kansas-Nebraska Act different than the Missouri Compromise or the Compromise of 1850?
What seems to be the answer to the issues the country is having?
Pick at least 3 of the newspaper editorials listed on this site. Write down what newspaper it was from and summarize the reaction by the author. (What did they think of the Kansas-Nebraska Act?)