History of North America

How did the north and south each view various events of 1850s?

Compromise of 1850

* North: The Compromise was a sellout to the South, as it allowed for the expansion of slavery into the newly acquired territories of the Mexican-American War.

* South: The Compromise was a victory for the South, as it preserved the institution of slavery and prevented the North from gaining control of the territories.

Kansas-Nebraska Act

* North: The Act was a betrayal of the Missouri Compromise, which had prohibited slavery north of the 36°30' parallel. It also opened up new territory to slavery.

* South: The Act was a victory for the South, as it allowed for the expansion of slavery into the Kansas and Nebraska territories.

Dred Scott Decision

* North: The decision was an outrage, as it ruled that African Americans were not citizens and could not sue in federal court. It also overturned the Missouri Compromise.

* South: The decision was a victory for the South, as it upheld the institution of slavery and struck a blow against the abolitionist movement.

John Brown's Raid

* North: Brown's raid was a heroic attempt to free slaves, but it was also a failure. It led to the deaths of several people and further inflamed tensions between the North and South.

* South: Brown's raid was seen as an act of terrorism, and it convinced many Southerners that the North was intent on destroying their way of life.