Differences
Why did the South depend heavily on slavery?
The South depended on slavery because plantation agriculture, especially cotton, required a large labor force.
Describe two cultural differences between the North and South
The North valued industry, reform, and education. The South valued agriculture, tradition, and plantation life.
Why did the Fugitive Slave Act anger many Northerners?
Northerners were angry because they were forced to help capture runaway enslaved people. Many felt it supported slavery directly.
Why did Southerners see abolitionists as a threat?
Southerners saw abolitionists as a threat because they challenged their economy and way of life. They feared slave rebellions.
Describe the actions of Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman escaped slavery and helped many others escape through the Underground Railroad. She risked her life repeatedly.
How did industrialization shape Northern society?
created cities, factories, and railroads in the North
Why did sectional differences make compromise difficult?
Sectional differences created opposing interests and beliefs. This made agreement and compromise more difficult over time.
What was the Dred Scott decision, and why did it upset the North?
The Dred Scott decision ruled that enslaved people were not citizens and that Congress could not ban slavery in territories. This angered Northerners and strengthened Southern power.
How did the Underground Railroad help enslaved people?
The Underground Railroad was a secret network that helped enslaved people escape to freedom. It relied on safe houses and guides.
Why is Tubman remembered as a hero today?
Tubman is remembered as a hero for her bravery and dedication to freedom. She saved many lives
What were the main economic differences between the North and the South?
The North had an industrial economy based on factories and trade, while the South had an agricultural economy based on plantations and cotton
Why was slavery the central issue in the years leading up to the Civil War?
Slavery was central because it affected the economy, politics, and morality of the nation. Every new territory raised the issue of whether it would allow slavery.
What were the main parts of the Compromise of 1850
The Compromise of 1850 admitted California as a free state and created a stronger Fugitive Slave Act. It temporarily reduced tensions.
Why was Uncle Tom’s Cabin influential in the North?
Uncle Tom’s Cabin exposed the cruelty of slavery. It changed many Northern opinions and angered the South.
How did abolitionists increase tensions between North and South?
Abolitionists increased tensions by openly criticizing slavery. Southerners felt attacked and threatened.
What is meant by “states’ rights,” and why was it important to the South
The South believed states could decide whether slavery was allowed.
What did the Missouri Compromise accomplish
The Missouri Compromise admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state. It also created a line limiting slavery’s expansion.
How did laws and court decisions increase sectional tensions?
Laws and decisions favored one side at different times. They increased mistrust and sectional hostility.
Describe the contributions of Frederick Douglass before the Civil War.
Frederick Douglass was a formerly enslaved man who became a powerful speaker and writer. He spoke out against slavery and influenced public opinion.
Why did the Whig Party collapse?
The Whig Party collapsed because members disagreed over slavery. The issue split the party apart.
How did tariffs create tension between the North and South?
The North supported tariffs to protect factories, while the South opposed them because tariffs made imported goods more expensive.
Why did the Missouri Compromise only temporarily solve the problem
It only delayed the conflict because it did not permanently solve the slavery issue. Expansion kept bringing the issue back.
What was the goal of the abolitionist movement?
The goal of the abolitionist movement was to end slavery completely. They believed slavery was morally wrong.
Why was Douglass considered a hero by many Americans
Douglass was considered a hero because he courageously shared his experiences and fought for equality. He inspired others to oppose slavery.
What was the main goal of the Republican Party?
The Republican Party’s main goal was to stop the spread of slavery into new territories. It gained strong Northern support.