The Republican Party formed in 1854 when northern Whigs, Democrats, and Free Soilers united against slavery's westward expansion. The party quickly gained political power, winning 105 House seats in its first election.
Section 1
Republicans Fight to Stop Slavery's Expansion
The Republican Party formed in 1854 when northern Whigs, Democrats, and Free-Soilers united against slavery's westward expansion. The party quickly gained political power, winning 105 House seats in its first election.
Section 2
Supreme Court Denies Dred Scott's Freedom
In 1857, the Supreme Court ruled African Americans weren't citizens and couldn't sue. Chief Justice Taney declared slavery legal in all territories and that living in free territory didn't make enslaved people free.
Section 3
Lincoln and Douglas Debate Slavery's Future
In 1858, Lincoln challenged Douglas to public debates about slavery's expansion. Lincoln opposed spreading slavery while Douglas defended popular sovereignty. Though Douglas won the Senate seat, Lincoln gained national recognition for his views.
Section 4
John Brown's Raid Divides the Nation
Abolitionist John Brown attacked Harpers Ferry in 1859, hoping to arm enslaved people for a revolt. His capture and execution deepened sectional tensions, as northerners praised him as a hero while southerners feared slave rebellions.
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Section 1
Republicans Fight to Stop Slavery's Expansion
The Republican Party formed in 1854 when northern Whigs, Democrats, and Free-Soilers united against slavery's westward expansion. The party quickly gained political power, winning 105 House seats in its first election.
Section 2
Supreme Court Denies Dred Scott's Freedom
In 1857, the Supreme Court ruled African Americans weren't citizens and couldn't sue. Chief Justice Taney declared slavery legal in all territories and that living in free territory didn't make enslaved people free.
Section 3
Lincoln and Douglas Debate Slavery's Future
In 1858, Lincoln challenged Douglas to public debates about slavery's expansion. Lincoln opposed spreading slavery while Douglas defended popular sovereignty. Though Douglas won the Senate seat, Lincoln gained national recognition for his views.
Section 4
John Brown's Raid Divides the Nation
Abolitionist John Brown attacked Harpers Ferry in 1859, hoping to arm enslaved people for a revolt. His capture and execution deepened sectional tensions, as northerners praised him as a hero while southerners feared slave rebellions.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter