Chapter 14: From Compromise Chapter 14: From Compromise to Secession 1850-1861to Secession 1850-1861

•Chapter key issues:Chapter key issues:•Compromise of 1850Compromise of 1850•Fugitive Slave Act and reactionFugitive Slave Act and reaction•Uncle Tom’s CabinUncle Tom’s Cabin•Kansas-Nebraska ActKansas-Nebraska Act•Collapse of the second party systemCollapse of the second party system•The Know nothings [American Party]The Know nothings [American Party]•Bleeding KansasBleeding Kansas

•John Brown – KansasJohn Brown – Kansas•Lecompton Constitution controversyLecompton Constitution controversy

•Sumner-Brooks affairSumner-Brooks affair•Election of 1856, rise of the Republican PartyElection of 1856, rise of the Republican Party•Dred Scott decisionDred Scott decision•John Brown again [Harper’s Ferry raid]John Brown again [Harper’s Ferry raid]

•Collapse of the Union 1860-1861Collapse of the Union 1860-1861

The Compromise of 1850The Compromise of 1850 Zachary Taylor’s presidencyZachary Taylor’s presidency

Clear position on slavery: Clear position on slavery: leave issue to states, leave issue to states, refrain from pushing the issue in new territoriesrefrain from pushing the issue in new territories

Wanted CA and NM to bypass territory status, enter Wanted CA and NM to bypass territory status, enter directly as statesdirectly as statesKnew both would be free states, please the NorthKnew both would be free states, please the NorthWould establish principle of Would establish principle of popular sovereigntypopular sovereignty

ProblemsProblemsEssentially created the situation proposed by the Essentially created the situation proposed by the

Wilmot Proviso[Whigs hated it]Wilmot Proviso[Whigs hated it]Democrats disagreed with Taylor’s assumption Democrats disagreed with Taylor’s assumption

that neither CA or NM would be suitable for that neither CA or NM would be suitable for slavery.slavery.

The Senate DebatesThe Senate Debates Clay proposes compromiseClay proposes compromise [actually a series of modifications to [actually a series of modifications to

Taylor’s plan]Taylor’s plan] CA admitted as free stateCA admitted as free state Remainder of Mexican cession divided into 2 territories, New Remainder of Mexican cession divided into 2 territories, New

Mexico and UtahMexico and Utah Texas/NM boundary issues settled in NM’s favorTexas/NM boundary issues settled in NM’s favor Federal Govt assume Texas’ public debtFederal Govt assume Texas’ public debt Slavery still allowed in D.C., but selling or buying slaves Slavery still allowed in D.C., but selling or buying slaves

outlawedoutlawed Much stronger fugitive slave law would be passedMuch stronger fugitive slave law would be passed

Collectively known as the Collectively known as the Compromise of 1850Compromise of 1850 Calhoun threatens secessionCalhoun threatens secession Daniel Webster supported itDaniel Webster supported it.[cost him his rep. In Mass.].[cost him his rep. In Mass.]

““Seventh of March” speechSeventh of March” speech William H. Seward [Northern Whig] strongly opposedWilliam H. Seward [Northern Whig] strongly opposed

““higher law” speechhigher law” speech

Zachary Taylor 1784-1850Twelfth President 1849-1850 1849-1850 (Last Whig)(Last Whig)

In February 1850 President Taylor February 1850 President Taylor had held a stormy conference with had held a stormy conference with southern leaders who threatened southern leaders who threatened secession. He told them that if secession. He told them that if necessary to enforce the laws, he necessary to enforce the laws, he personally would lead the Army. personally would lead the Army. Persons "taken in rebellion against Persons "taken in rebellion against the Union, he would hang ... with less the Union, he would hang ... with less reluctance than he had hanged reluctance than he had hanged deserters and spies in Mexico." He deserters and spies in Mexico." He never wavered.never wavered.Then events took an unexpected turn. Then events took an unexpected turn. After participating in ceremonies at After participating in ceremonies at the Washington Monument on a the Washington Monument on a blistering July 4, Taylor fell ill; blistering July 4, Taylor fell ill; within five days he was dead.within five days he was dead.

““These are disputed topics, and I These are disputed topics, and I have no inclination to enter into have no inclination to enter into them. But I will allude to the other them. But I will allude to the other complaints of the South, and complaints of the South, and especially to one which has in my especially to one which has in my opinion just foundation; and that is, opinion just foundation; and that is, that there has been found at the that there has been found at the North, among individuals and among North, among individuals and among legislators, a disinclination to legislators, a disinclination to perform fully their constitutional perform fully their constitutional duties in regard to the return of duties in regard to the return of persons bound to service who have persons bound to service who have escaped into the free States. In that escaped into the free States. In that respect, the South, in my judgment, is respect, the South, in my judgment, is right, and the North is wrong!”right, and the North is wrong!”

7th of March 1850 speech in support of Fugitive slave law, which 7th of March 1850 speech in support of Fugitive slave law, which killed Webster’s chances of Presidencykilled Webster’s chances of Presidency

Daniel Webster Daniel Webster 1782-18521782-1852

Senator from Mass 1826-1852Senator from Mass 1826-1852

America’s greatest lawyer: America’s greatest lawyer: argued [and won] argued [and won] Dartmouth v Woodward, Dartmouth v Woodward, McCullough v Md, and McCullough v Md, and Gibbons v OgdenGibbons v Ogden

William H. William H. SewardSewardSen.[Whig, NY, Sen.[Whig, NY, later Republican]later Republican]Secretary of State Secretary of State 1861-18691861-1869

Seward’s famous “Higher Law” speech Seward’s famous “Higher Law” speech made in opposition to the Compromise made in opposition to the Compromise of 1850, marked him as so staunch an of 1850, marked him as so staunch an abolitionist, that it probably kept him abolitionist, that it probably kept him from the Presidential nomination in from the Presidential nomination in 1860, and Lincoln became the nominee 1860, and Lincoln became the nominee of the young Republican Party instead. of the young Republican Party instead. He then appointed Seward as Secretary He then appointed Seward as Secretary of State. It was Seward who negotiated of State. It was Seward who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia. the purchase of Alaska from Russia. Seward was also a target of Boothe’s co-Seward was also a target of Boothe’s co-conspirators the night Lincoln was conspirators the night Lincoln was Assassinated. He was wounded but Assassinated. He was wounded but survived, serving as Sec. Of State until survived, serving as Sec. Of State until 1869.1869.

Passage of the CompromisePassage of the Compromise

Clay [ill, frail] yields to Stephen A. Douglas [D, Illinois] to push Clay [ill, frail] yields to Stephen A. Douglas [D, Illinois] to push the compromise in the Senatethe compromise in the Senate Millard Fillmore replaces Taylor [ had to, dead, y’know]Millard Fillmore replaces Taylor [ had to, dead, y’know]

Provisions [again]Provisions [again] California enters as a free stateCalifornia enters as a free state New Mexico and UtahNew Mexico and Utah no restrictions on slavery no restrictions on slavery [popular [popular

sovereignty]sovereignty] Texas-New Mexico border dispute settled in New Mexico’s Texas-New Mexico border dispute settled in New Mexico’s

favorfavor US Govt to assume Texas’ public debtUS Govt to assume Texas’ public debt Abolition of slave trade in D.C.Abolition of slave trade in D.C. Fugitive Slave LawFugitive Slave Law

The Fugitive Slave LawThe Fugitive Slave Law As anti-slave sentiment in North grew, local authorities refused to As anti-slave sentiment in North grew, local authorities refused to

cooperate with slave hunterscooperate with slave hunters Personal liberty lawsPersonal liberty laws

Some states made it crime to use jail to hold slaveSome states made it crime to use jail to hold slave Activist lawyers jammed courts to avoid sending slaves southActivist lawyers jammed courts to avoid sending slaves south

Fugitive Slave Act (1850)Fugitive Slave Act (1850) Prigg v. Pennsylvania (1842) Prigg v. Pennsylvania (1842) PA 1842 case used as precedent for “slave catching” being PA 1842 case used as precedent for “slave catching” being

kidnappingkidnapping ‘‘Underground railroad” extended to CanadaUnderground railroad” extended to Canada

Federal government pays all cost of enforcementFederal government pays all cost of enforcement Accused slave has no rightsAccused slave has no rights

No jury trial, or right to testifyNo jury trial, or right to testify in own behalf in own behalf U.S. marshals required to help catch runawaysU.S. marshals required to help catch runaways if asked if asked

Law skewed to favor slave ownerLaw skewed to favor slave owner

The Nashville ConventionThe Nashville Convention

•Convened Nashville TN, June 1850 by nine southern Convened Nashville TN, June 1850 by nine southern statesstates [pro-slavery Whigs and some Southern [pro-slavery Whigs and some Southern Democrats]Democrats]

•Dominated by “States’ righters”Dominated by “States’ righters”•Attendees nicknamed “fire eaters”,Attendees nicknamed “fire eaters”, due to extreme due to extreme pro-slavery positionspro-slavery positions•Some debate very much secessionistSome debate very much secessionist

•Situation compounded when Taylor dies, July 13, Situation compounded when Taylor dies, July 13, leaving Millard Fillmore President leaving Millard Fillmore President

Millard FillmoreMillard Fillmore 1313thth President President 1850-1853 1850-1853

Fillmore presided over the Senate Fillmore presided over the Senate during the months of nerve-wracking during the months of nerve-wracking debates over the Compromise of 1850. debates over the Compromise of 1850. He made no public comment on the He made no public comment on the merits of the compromise proposals, but merits of the compromise proposals, but a few days before President Taylor's a few days before President Taylor's death, he intimated to him that if there death, he intimated to him that if there should be a tie vote on Henry Clay's bill, should be a tie vote on Henry Clay's bill, he would vote in favor of it. he would vote in favor of it. Thus the sudden accession of Fillmore Thus the sudden accession of Fillmore to the Presidency in July 1850 brought to the Presidency in July 1850 brought an abrupt political shift in the an abrupt political shift in the administration. Taylor's Cabinet administration. Taylor's Cabinet resigned and President Fillmore at once resigned and President Fillmore at once appointed Daniel Webster to be appointed Daniel Webster to be Secretary of State, thus proclaiming his Secretary of State, thus proclaiming his alliance with the moderate Whigs who alliance with the moderate Whigs who favored the Compromisefavored the Compromise

Abolitionist poster “KIDNAPPING AGAIN!!”Abolitionist poster “KIDNAPPING AGAIN!!”

Enforcement of the Fugitive Slave ActEnforcement of the Fugitive Slave Act

•Riot in Boston, 50,000 help free captured slaveRiot in Boston, 50,000 help free captured slave about about to be sent Southto be sent South•Daniel Webster becomes a villain in his home state of Daniel Webster becomes a villain in his home state of Mass. For support of Fugitive Slave LawMass. For support of Fugitive Slave Law•Fillmore orders 5 platoons of troops to Boston to Fillmore orders 5 platoons of troops to Boston to restore order and enforce the Lawrestore order and enforce the Law•Many northerners nationwide oppose enforcement Many northerners nationwide oppose enforcement both actively and passivelyboth actively and passively

Advertisement for runaway slaveAdvertisement for runaway slave

This handbill This handbill appeared appeared following following

passage of the passage of the Fugitive Slave Fugitive Slave

LawLaw

Simon Legree and Uncle Tom: A Simon Legree and Uncle Tom: A scene from Uncle Tom's Cabin, scene from Uncle Tom's Cabin, history's most famous history's most famous abolitionist novel.abolitionist novel.

Uncle Tom’s CabinUncle Tom’s Cabin Harriet Beecher Stowe [sister of Catharine, of “women’s Harriet Beecher Stowe [sister of Catharine, of “women’s sphere” fame]sphere” fame]

Experience in Cincinnati acquainted her with plight of Experience in Cincinnati acquainted her with plight of escaped slavesescaped slaves

Book is reaction against Fugitive Slave LawBook is reaction against Fugitive Slave Law Central theme: breakup of slave familiesCentral theme: breakup of slave families Shapes Northern perceptions of slavery for a generation Shapes Northern perceptions of slavery for a generation

– – puts a human face on what had been, for many, an puts a human face on what had been, for many, an abstract conceptabstract concept

•Published 1852Published 1852•300,000 copies first year, 1.2 million by 1853300,000 copies first year, 1.2 million by 1853•Dramatized, read on stage by black actors in NorthDramatized, read on stage by black actors in North•““undeliverable” by mail in Southundeliverable” by mail in South

Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin

Harriet Beecher Harriet Beecher Stowe Stowe ((1811-18961811-1896))

"If it were your Harry, mother, or "If it were your Harry, mother, or your Willie, that were going to be your Willie, that were going to be torn from you by a brutal trader, torn from you by a brutal trader, tomorrow morning,--if you had tomorrow morning,--if you had seen the man, and heard that the seen the man, and heard that the papers were signed and delivered, papers were signed and delivered, and you had only from twelve and you had only from twelve o'clock till morning to make good o'clock till morning to make good your escape,--how fast could you your escape,--how fast could you walk? How many miles could you walk? How many miles could you make in those few brief hours, with make in those few brief hours, with the darling at your bosom,--the the darling at your bosom,--the little sleepy head on your little sleepy head on your shoulder,--the small, soft arms shoulder,--the small, soft arms trustingly holding on to your trustingly holding on to your neck?" neck?"

Election of 1852Election of 1852•Whigs torn [north/south] over Fugitive Slave ActWhigs torn [north/south] over Fugitive Slave Act•Nominate Mexican War hero Winfield ScottNominate Mexican War hero Winfield Scott•Dems nominate Franklin Pierce, relative unknown Dems nominate Franklin Pierce, relative unknown nationallynationally•Pierce wins slim victory, signals the beginning of the Pierce wins slim victory, signals the beginning of the end of the Whig Party and the collapse of the second end of the Whig Party and the collapse of the second two party systemtwo party system..

Winfield Scott 1786 - 1866

Scott, perhaps America’s greatest Scott, perhaps America’s greatest military hero after George Washington, military hero after George Washington, was the candidate of a Whig Party torn was the candidate of a Whig Party torn by deep division over slavery. He would by deep division over slavery. He would serve Lincoln as General in Chief at the serve Lincoln as General in Chief at the beginning of the Civil War, a career beginning of the Civil War, a career spanning 50 years in the Army.spanning 50 years in the Army.

Franklin PierceFranklin Pierce 1804-18691804-18691414thth President President

•Served in the Mexican WarServed in the Mexican War•was proposed by New Hampshire was proposed by New Hampshire friends for the Presidential nomination friends for the Presidential nomination in 1852. in 1852. •At the Democratic convention delegates At the Democratic convention delegates agreed upon platform supporting agreed upon platform supporting Compromise of 1850Compromise of 1850•Also pledged hostility to any efforts to Also pledged hostility to any efforts to “agitate the slavery question.”“agitate the slavery question.”•Delegates balloted Delegates balloted 48 times48 times and and eliminated all the well-known candidates eliminated all the well-known candidates beforebefore nominating Pierce, a true "dark nominating Pierce, a true "dark horse." horse."

Troubles in Kansas and the Kansas-Nebraska issue, kept Troubles in Kansas and the Kansas-Nebraska issue, kept Pierce far from the calm Presidency he had wantedPierce far from the calm Presidency he had wanted

Kansas and the Rise of the Republican PartyKansas and the Rise of the Republican Party

Settlers and railroads want to expand West of MissouriSettlers and railroads want to expand West of Missouri Want territories west of Missouri and Iowa organizedWant territories west of Missouri and Iowa organized Want Indian claims “extinguished”, national Govt. Want Indian claims “extinguished”, national Govt.

providedprovided Stephen A. DouglasStephen A. Douglas [the “Little Giant”] [the “Little Giant”]

Senator from Illinois [Dem]Senator from Illinois [Dem] Has friends who want RR to head west from Chicago Has friends who want RR to head west from Chicago

vice farther southvice farther south Has Has Presidential aspirationsPresidential aspirations as well as well Proposes a package of proposals collectively called the Proposes a package of proposals collectively called the

Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854

Stephen A. Douglas emerged as a leading Democrat during the 1850s

DOUGLAS, Stephen Arnold, (1813 - 1861)

•Stephen A. DouglasStephen A. Douglas• U.S. Senator 1847-1861U.S. Senator 1847-1861•Unsuccessful Dem. Candidate Unsuccessful Dem. Candidate for President 1860for President 1860•Author of Kansas-Nebraska ActAuthor of Kansas-Nebraska Act•Opposed Lincoln in 1858 Senate Opposed Lincoln in 1858 Senate racerace

• their their debates framed the national debates framed the national debate over Slaverydebate over Slavery and were and were carried in newspapers nationwidecarried in newspapers nationwide•Lincoln was elevated to national Lincoln was elevated to national famefame largely due to the speeches he largely due to the speeches he made in a losing effort in the 1858 made in a losing effort in the 1858 Senate raceSenate race

The “Little Giant”The “Little Giant”

The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854

•The ProblemsThe Problems::•Some [Southerners] wanted transcontinental Some [Southerners] wanted transcontinental RR to start west from New Orleans or MemphisRR to start west from New Orleans or Memphis•Nebraska was within LA Purchase and north of Nebraska was within LA Purchase and north of MO Compromise line [36MO Compromise line [36º 30’], therefore, closed º 30’], therefore, closed to slaveryto slavery•Southerners would oppose adding a new Southerners would oppose adding a new territory that was closed to slaveryterritory that was closed to slavery

•The ProposalThe Proposal::•Create 2 new territories, Nebraska west of Create 2 new territories, Nebraska west of Iowa, and Kansas, west of MissouriIowa, and Kansas, west of Missouri•Allow voters to decide whether or not to allow Allow voters to decide whether or not to allow slaveryslavery in each new territory in each new territory [Popular [Popular Sovereignty]Sovereignty]

•The AssumptionThe Assumption::•Nebraska might choose to bar slavery, Kansas Nebraska might choose to bar slavery, Kansas would probably choose to allow itwould probably choose to allow it

The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 (continued)The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 (continued)

Reaction to the Kansas-Nebraska ActReaction to the Kansas-Nebraska Act

•Anti-slavery Whigs and “free-soil” Democrats said it Anti-slavery Whigs and “free-soil” Democrats said it was just a plan to extend slavery above the MO was just a plan to extend slavery above the MO Compromise line [Where KS, in fact, was!]Compromise line [Where KS, in fact, was!]•Southerners outraged at this reaction, felt slavery Southerners outraged at this reaction, felt slavery

could/should be allowed anywhere could/should be allowed anywhere [remember[remember, , Calhoun had labeled MO Compromise as Calhoun had labeled MO Compromise as unconstitutional for years!unconstitutional for years!]]•Bill passes without one Northern Whig vote in supportBill passes without one Northern Whig vote in support•Hurt Douglas politically with extremists in both North Hurt Douglas politically with extremists in both North and South, and South,

The Free Soil MovementThe Free Soil Movement•““Free Soil” – land where slavery was not allowedFree Soil” – land where slavery was not allowed

•Some who fought about everything else, agreed Some who fought about everything else, agreed slavery should be contained where it wasslavery should be contained where it was•Some opposed it on moral groundsSome opposed it on moral grounds•Some, racist, opposed any blacks into new Some, racist, opposed any blacks into new territories, slave or freeterritories, slave or free•All felt slavery impeded progress of whitesAll felt slavery impeded progress of whites•Unfair competition with white workersUnfair competition with white workers

•Free soilers saw KS-NB Act as last straw, an attempt Free soilers saw KS-NB Act as last straw, an attempt to spread slaveryto spread slavery•Southerners saw it as Southerners saw it as opportunityopportunity

Decline in “Manifest Destiny Mania”Decline in “Manifest Destiny Mania”

•Sectional rivalries cool expansion interests [sort of]Sectional rivalries cool expansion interests [sort of]•1853: Gadsden Purchase adds some new area in 1853: Gadsden Purchase adds some new area in Southwest,Seen as ripe for slavery expansionSouthwest,Seen as ripe for slavery expansion

•CubaCuba•Long seen by some Southerners as potentially a new Long seen by some Southerners as potentially a new slave territory for the US [it was still Spanish!]slave territory for the US [it was still Spanish!]•1854: former MS governor John Quitman actually 1854: former MS governor John Quitman actually plans military expedition to seize Cuba!plans military expedition to seize Cuba! [these foreign [these foreign adventures were called “adventures were called “filibustersfilibusters”, but are unrelated ”, but are unrelated to the practice in the Senate of “talking a bill to death” to the practice in the Senate of “talking a bill to death” to kill it, which is also known as a filibuster]to kill it, which is also known as a filibuster]•Possibly actually endorsed by Pres. Pierce, but Possibly actually endorsed by Pres. Pierce, but Northerners made it public knowledge, and it was Northerners made it public knowledge, and it was scrappedscrapped

John A. Quitman John A. Quitman 1798 - 18581798 - 1858

In 1849 Quitman was elected governor In 1849 Quitman was elected governor of Mississippi and from the beginning of Mississippi and from the beginning of his term favored secession as a of his term favored secession as a means of guaranteeing the means of guaranteeing the continuation of slavery. continuation of slavery. An advocate of Cuban liberation from An advocate of Cuban liberation from Spain, Quitman entertained Spain, Quitman entertained revolutionary leader Narciso López in revolutionary leader Narciso López in Jackson, but declined his offer of Jackson, but declined his offer of command of the revolutionary army in command of the revolutionary army in Cuba. He was indicted by a federal Cuba. He was indicted by a federal court, however, for violating United court, however, for violating United States neutrality laws in favor of the States neutrality laws in favor of the insurrectionists, and resigned as insurrectionists, and resigned as governor. governor.

The Ostend ManifestoThe Ostend Manifesto

•1854: Ambassadors to Great Britain, France and 1854: Ambassadors to Great Britain, France and Spain meet at Ostend, BelgiumSpain meet at Ostend, Belgium•Issue a confidential memorandum [“the Ostend Issue a confidential memorandum [“the Ostend Manifesto”] to President Pierce stating US should Manifesto”] to President Pierce stating US should “acquire” Cuba by any means necessary“acquire” Cuba by any means necessary•Uproar over Quitman’s aborted filibuster [to do Uproar over Quitman’s aborted filibuster [to do just that!] was so great that Pierce rejected the just that!] was so great that Pierce rejected the proposalproposal

More Cuba issues and general mischiefMore Cuba issues and general mischief

•William WalkerWilliam Walker•Led several filibustering expeditions into Central Led several filibustering expeditions into Central America 1853-1860America 1853-1860•Executed by firing squad in Honduras, 1860Executed by firing squad in Honduras, 1860

•CubaCuba•Southern planters split on issueSouthern planters split on issue•LA sugar barons feared competition from cheaper LA sugar barons feared competition from cheaper Cuban sugar if Cuba were annexedCuban sugar if Cuba were annexed•Many in North simply feared acquisition of a large, Many in North simply feared acquisition of a large, almost entirely black populationalmost entirely black population, who might or , who might or might not be slaves, but who would become the might not be slaves, but who would become the responsibility of the U.S. Governmentresponsibility of the U.S. Government

•William WalkerWilliam Walker: Doctor, Lawyer, : Doctor, Lawyer, adventureradventurer•Greatest of American filibusterersGreatest of American filibusterers•1853: Aim was to obtain the independence 1853: Aim was to obtain the independence of Sonora and Baja California for ultimate of Sonora and Baja California for ultimate annexation by U. S. to extend slave annexation by U. S. to extend slave territory and maintain the balance of territory and maintain the balance of power for the South.power for the South.

•Failed, arrested, tried [in US] acquittedFailed, arrested, tried [in US] acquitted•1855: landed Nicaragua, declared himself 1855: landed Nicaragua, declared himself presidentpresident

•Revoked anti-slavery laws, revoked Revoked anti-slavery laws, revoked Vanderbilt steamship monopoly on Vanderbilt steamship monopoly on trans Nicaragua RR./ship passagetrans Nicaragua RR./ship passage•Forced to surrender, leave in 1857Forced to surrender, leave in 1857

•Vanderbilt, studied maps of Central American for many hours,. Vanderbilt, studied maps of Central American for many hours,. thought he had a better solution. The San Juan River runs along the thought he had a better solution. The San Juan River runs along the border with Costa Rica for 119 miles and then empties into Lake border with Costa Rica for 119 miles and then empties into Lake Nicaragua. One Hundred miles long and 50 miles wide, the western Nicaragua. One Hundred miles long and 50 miles wide, the western shore of Lake Nicaragua is only 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean. shore of Lake Nicaragua is only 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Why not shorten the route to California by using Lake Nicaragua Why not shorten the route to California by using Lake Nicaragua and the San Juan River?and the San Juan River?

After some political machinations involving some crooked After some political machinations involving some crooked subordinates subordinates and the American adventurer William Walkerand the American adventurer William Walker, , Vanderbilt lost control of his Accessory Transit Company Vanderbilt lost control of his Accessory Transit Company

•Later 1857: tried again in Later 1857: tried again in NicaraguaNicaragua

• arrested by US Navy, arrested by US Navy, tried, acquitted of tried, acquitted of violating Neutrality Actviolating Neutrality Act

•1860: tried filibuster in 1860: tried filibuster in HondurasHonduras

•Arrested by British Arrested by British NavyNavy•Turned over to Turned over to Honduran authoritiesHonduran authorities•Shot by firing squadShot by firing squad

Note name misspelled on tombstone in Honduras

Death of the Whig PartyDeath of the Whig Party Kansas-Nebraska Act destroys Whig partyKansas-Nebraska Act destroys Whig party Winfield ScottWinfield Scott Republican PartyRepublican Party

Free-SoilersFree-Soilers antislavery Democratsantislavery Democrats

Democrats and 1854 electionsDemocrats and 1854 elections Democrats lose control of CongressDemocrats lose control of Congress Become more Southern dominatedBecome more Southern dominated

Nativism and the Know-Nothings (American party)Nativism and the Know-Nothings (American party)

The Rise of the “Know-Nothings”The Rise of the “Know-Nothings”

“American PartyAmerican Party”: merger of ”: merger of Order of the Star Spangled BannerOrder of the Star Spangled Banner Order of the United AmericansOrder of the United Americans

IssuesIssues TemperanceTemperance Opposed tax support for church schoolsOpposed tax support for church schools Lengthen naturalization from 5 to 21 yearsLengthen naturalization from 5 to 21 years

Know-Nothings devastate Northern WhigsKnow-Nothings devastate Northern Whigs

Immigration and NativismImmigration and Nativism

1840s: surge in German and Irish 1840s: surge in German and Irish immigrantsimmigrants Many immigrants were Roman CatholicsMany immigrants were Roman Catholics Ethnic riots between Protestants and Ethnic riots between Protestants and

CatholicsCatholicsNativism: established Americans perceived Nativism: established Americans perceived

the recent immigrants as responsible for the the recent immigrants as responsible for the rise in crime and poverty in the citiesrise in crime and poverty in the cities

Immigrants in PoliticsImmigrants in Politics Increase in political power of immigrantsIncrease in political power of immigrants

Rise in foreign-born votersRise in foreign-born voters Many became DemocratsMany became Democrats Leaned toward pro-slavery as they competed Leaned toward pro-slavery as they competed

with Northern blacks for laborwith Northern blacks for labor Catholic church anti-AbolitionistCatholic church anti-Abolitionist Temperance and Public school debateTemperance and Public school debate

Prohibition laws aggravated ethnic conflictsProhibition laws aggravated ethnic conflicts Public vs. parochial school systemsPublic vs. parochial school systems

““Know-Nothing” poster showing Know-Nothing” poster showing the “ideal” American malethe “ideal” American male

•The American Party [aka the The American Party [aka the “Know-Nothings”] actually “Know-Nothings”] actually controlled the MASS legislature controlled the MASS legislature in 1854 and 56, formerly prime in 1854 and 56, formerly prime Whig territoryWhig territory•Saw conspiracy everywhere, Saw conspiracy everywhere, from the “Slave Power” to the from the “Slave Power” to the PopePope•Held first national political Held first national political nominating convention in nominating convention in Baltimore, 1854Baltimore, 1854

The Decline of NativismThe Decline of Nativism

Turmoil in KansasTurmoil in KansasCenter for nativism shifted to the SouthCenter for nativism shifted to the South

Southern Know-Nothings were pro-slaverySouthern Know-Nothings were pro-slavery Northern Know-Nothings were anti-slaveryNorthern Know-Nothings were anti-slavery

By 1856, many Northern Know-Nothings had By 1856, many Northern Know-Nothings had become Republicansbecome Republicans

Nativism faded, along with ethnic tensions and Nativism faded, along with ethnic tensions and cultural issuescultural issues

Seemed ridiculous to oppose slavery and also Seemed ridiculous to oppose slavery and also oppose white Immigrants and Catholicsoppose white Immigrants and Catholics

““Bleeding Kansas”Bleeding Kansas”

•Kansas battleground for pro and anti slavery forcesKansas battleground for pro and anti slavery forces•1855: vote to elect territorial legislature [who will 1855: vote to elect territorial legislature [who will write new constitution]write new constitution]•MS “MS “border ruffiansborder ruffians” [led by MO Senator!] enter ” [led by MO Senator!] enter KS, vote illegally in attempt to elect pro-slavery KS, vote illegally in attempt to elect pro-slavery legislatorslegislators•Stole election, set up pro-slavery territorial Stole election, set up pro-slavery territorial legislature in legislature in Lecompton, KSLecompton, KS

•Pass law allowing only pro-slavery legislatorsPass law allowing only pro-slavery legislators•Made possession of abolitionist literature a Made possession of abolitionist literature a capital offense!capital offense!• made harboring fugitive slave a crimemade harboring fugitive slave a crime

•““Free Staters” set up Free Staters” set up rival government in rival government in Topeka. KSTopeka. KS

•Mobs from Mobs from Lecompton shoot up Lecompton shoot up Lawrence [an anti-Lawrence [an anti-slavery enclave]slavery enclave]•Burned buildings, Burned buildings, destroyed printing destroyed printing pressespresses•Terrorized Terrorized inhabitantsinhabitants

Bleeding Kansas cont’dBleeding Kansas cont’d

John Brown, fanatical PA born abolitionistJohn Brown, fanatical PA born abolitionist Led raid at Pottowatamie Creek [a pro-slavery Led raid at Pottowatamie Creek [a pro-slavery

settlement]settlement] Shot and hacked 5 persons to death, fledShot and hacked 5 persons to death, fled

Kansas now in a mini Civil WarKansas now in a mini Civil War

Popular sovereignty had only institutionalized the Popular sovereignty had only institutionalized the hatred between the two factionshatred between the two factions

President Pierce initially [and foolishly!] recognized the President Pierce initially [and foolishly!] recognized the pro-slavery Lecompton Government as the legitimate pro-slavery Lecompton Government as the legitimate oneone

John BrownJohn Brown (May 9, 1800 – (May 9, 1800 – December 2, 1859) was an December 2, 1859) was an American abolitionist, the first American abolitionist, the first white abolitionist to advocate and white abolitionist to advocate and to practice guerrilla warfare as a to practice guerrilla warfare as a means to the abolition of slavery.means to the abolition of slavery.

Free soiler Free soiler cartoon, critical cartoon, critical of the situation in of the situation in KansasKansas

Kansas-Nebraska and the Slavery IssueKansas-Nebraska and the Slavery Issue

Poster announcing an antislavery meeting in the Kansas Poster announcing an antislavery meeting in the Kansas TerritoryTerritory

The Sumner-Brooks affairThe Sumner-Brooks affair•Charles Sumner Whig Senator, MA, delivering a speech Charles Sumner Whig Senator, MA, delivering a speech “the Crime Against Kansas”, made a derogatory “the Crime Against Kansas”, made a derogatory reference to Senator Butler of SC.reference to Senator Butler of SC.•Rep. Preston Brooks, nephew of Butler, entered Senate 2 Rep. Preston Brooks, nephew of Butler, entered Senate 2 days later, beat Sumner unconscious with metal headed days later, beat Sumner unconscious with metal headed canecane•Sumner unable to sit in Senate for 3 yearsSumner unable to sit in Senate for 3 years•Brooks a hero to SC, sent over 30 canes to replace one he Brooks a hero to SC, sent over 30 canes to replace one he broke on Sumnerbroke on Sumner

In 1856 Brooks caused a sensation In 1856 Brooks caused a sensation when he attacked the anti-slavery when he attacked the anti-slavery campaigner, Charles Sumner, on the campaigner, Charles Sumner, on the floor of the United States Senate. He floor of the United States Senate. He was beaten unconscious and his was beaten unconscious and his injuries stopped him from attending injuries stopped him from attending the Senate for the next three years. the Senate for the next three years.

Faced with attempts by Faced with attempts by members of the Republican Party to members of the Republican Party to expel him, Brooks resigned from expel him, Brooks resigned from Congress. However, he was re-Congress. However, he was re-elected later that year and remained elected later that year and remained in office until his death in in office until his death in Washington on 27th January, 1857.Washington on 27th January, 1857.

Preston BrooksPreston Brooks 1819-1857 1819-1857

Charles Sumner, the U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, was

an outspoken abolitionist

•1848 helped to form the free Soil 1848 helped to form the free Soil Party. Party. •Became the Became the Senate's leading Senate's leading opponent of slavery.opponent of slavery.•Beaten unconscious by Preston Beaten unconscious by Preston Brooks, a congressman from South Brooks, a congressman from South Carolina. Injuries kept him from the Carolina. Injuries kept him from the Senate for the next three years. Senate for the next three years. •During the secession crisis in 1860-During the secession crisis in 1860-61, Sumner argued against 61, Sumner argued against compromise and compromise and became one of the became one of the leaders of the Radical Republicans in leaders of the Radical Republicans in CongressCongress..•Brooks’ beating left him hostile to the Brooks’ beating left him hostile to the South, and reconstruction proved South, and reconstruction proved harder on the South because of it.harder on the South because of it.

Charles SumnerCharles Sumner U.S. SenatorU.S. Senator MassachusettsMassachusetts 1851-18741851-1874

I have aI have aheadacheheadache

The Election of 1856 part 1The Election of 1856 part 1

Republicans dominant party in NorthRepublicans dominant party in North 11stst truly sectional party, mostly westerners truly sectional party, mostly westerners Anti-slavery, picked up anti-slave Whigs and Know Anti-slavery, picked up anti-slave Whigs and Know

NothingsNothings Pro internal improvements, including Pro internal improvements, including

transcontinental railroadtranscontinental railroad Nominate Nominate John C. FrémontJohn C. Frémont: “Free Soil, Free Speech, : “Free Soil, Free Speech,

Free Men, Frémont” [first Republican presidential Free Men, Frémont” [first Republican presidential candidate] candidate]

Democrats and Democrats and James BuchananJames BuchananAmbassador to G.B. during Kansas Ambassador to G.B. during Kansas difficultiesdifficultiesSigner of Ostend manifesto, popular in SouthSigner of Ostend manifesto, popular in SouthNortherner for PA, most friends southernersNortherner for PA, most friends southernersOnly truly national candidateOnly truly national candidateEndorsed popular sovereigntyEndorsed popular sovereigntyBlamed Republicans for “Bleeding Kansas”Blamed Republicans for “Bleeding Kansas”

American Party in South runs American Party in South runs Millard Millard FillmoreFillmore

Election of 1856 part 2Election of 1856 part 2

Election Election in the Northin the North Democrats vs. RepublicansDemocrats vs. Republicans

Election Election in the Southin the South Democrats vs. American partyDemocrats vs. American party

High voter turnout in North, Buchanan winsHigh voter turnout in North, Buchanan wins Democrats do well charging Republicans with Democrats do well charging Republicans with

support for racial equalitysupport for racial equality Republicans claim opposition to expansion of slavery Republicans claim opposition to expansion of slavery

is to protect opportunity for whitesis to protect opportunity for whites

James Buchanan, fifteenth President of the

United StatesJames Buchanan, James Buchanan, fifteenth President fifteenth President of the United States of the United States

1856-18601856-1860

•Being out of the US during the Being out of the US during the Kansas hostilities probably Kansas hostilities probably helped Buchanan get electedhelped Buchanan get elected•He He supported popular supported popular Sovereignty in new territories Sovereignty in new territories and desperately wanted a and desperately wanted a Supreme Court decision that Supreme Court decision that would “settle” the slavery issue would “settle” the slavery issue once and for allonce and for all•A lifelong bachelor, his niece A lifelong bachelor, his niece served as first ladyserved as first lady

John C. Frémont (l.) was the first Republican John C. Frémont (l.) was the first Republican presidential candidatepresidential candidate

This cartoon from the 1856 presidential race condemns the This cartoon from the 1856 presidential race condemns the Democrats’ stand on Kansas-Nebraska -Democrats’ stand on Kansas-Nebraska -Nebraska.

The Dred Scott CaseThe Dred Scott Case

Dred ScotDred Scot Mo slave, owner had taken him and wife to Illinois and Mo slave, owner had taken him and wife to Illinois and

Wisconsin, Scott claimed they ought to be free Wisconsin, Scott claimed they ought to be free [both [both were free states]were free states]

Sued, upheld, reversed in MO state court system, Sued, upheld, reversed in MO state court system, appealed to USSCappealed to USSC

Defendant now was former owner’s brother, [Sanford] Defendant now was former owner’s brother, [Sanford] executor of owner’s estate from New York, which is why executor of owner’s estate from New York, which is why case ended up in USSCcase ended up in USSC

Roger B. TaneyRoger B. Taney Served as Chief Justice 28+ years, following John Served as Chief Justice 28+ years, following John

MarshallMarshall Slave owner from MdSlave owner from Md Knew Buchanan wanted decision ending controversy Knew Buchanan wanted decision ending controversy

over extension of slavery in new territories, gave it to over extension of slavery in new territories, gave it to himhim

[Scott vs Sanford][Scott vs Sanford]

Dred Scott Decision cont’dDred Scott Decision cont’d

•The decision:The decision:•Slaves had no rightsSlaves had no rights; they were property, could not ; they were property, could not suesue•No black, slave or free could ever become a citizen No black, slave or free could ever become a citizen of the USof the US•Even if Scott could have sued, he wasn’t free, Even if Scott could have sued, he wasn’t free, because the because the MO compromise had been un-MO compromise had been un-constitutionalconstitutional [supporting the now dead John C. [supporting the now dead John C. Calhoun’s long time position that the 5Calhoun’s long time position that the 5thth amendment protected the slave owner!]amendment protected the slave owner!]•Any law restricting the spread of slavery violated Any law restricting the spread of slavery violated the 5the 5thth amendment amendment, therefore would be , therefore would be unconstitutionalunconstitutional

Taney sat on the Court until his death in Taney sat on the Court until his death in 1864. He made significant contributions 1864. He made significant contributions to American constitutional law, but to American constitutional law, but the the case most closely associated with Taney case most closely associated with Taney inflicted enormous injury to the Court inflicted enormous injury to the Court as an institution. The case was Dred as an institution. The case was Dred Scott v. Sandford.Scott v. Sandford.

Roger B. TaneyRoger B. Taney 1777-18641777-1864Chief Justice, USSCChief Justice, USSC 28 1/2 yrs28 1/2 yrs

Scott’s original owner’s sons, childhood Scott’s original owner’s sons, childhood friends of Scott, had helped pay Scott's friends of Scott, had helped pay Scott's legal fees through the 11 years the case legal fees through the 11 years the case ran. After the Supreme Court's decision, ran. After the Supreme Court's decision, the former master's sons purchased Scott the former master's sons purchased Scott and his wife and set them free.and his wife and set them free.

Repercussions of Scott vs SandfordRepercussions of Scott vs Sandford

•Republicans now convinced of a “slave Republicans now convinced of a “slave power” conspiracypower” conspiracy

•Buchanan now seen by some northerners of Buchanan now seen by some northerners of both parties as a dupe of the southern both parties as a dupe of the southern “slaveocracy”“slaveocracy”

•Republicans announce Taney’s comments on Republicans announce Taney’s comments on the constitutionality of the MO Compromise o the constitutionality of the MO Compromise o be merely “opinions” and not binding on the be merely “opinions” and not binding on the statesstates

The Lecompton Constitution 1857The Lecompton Constitution 1857

Both the pro-slave Lecompton and anti-slave Topeka Both the pro-slave Lecompton and anti-slave Topeka govts claim to be the true Kansas govt.govts claim to be the true Kansas govt.

Buchanan’s plan: hold state wide convention, draft Buchanan’s plan: hold state wide convention, draft constitution either allowing or banning slavery, submit constitution either allowing or banning slavery, submit to Senate for approval, become a stateto Senate for approval, become a state

Election for convention in June, 1857, boycotted by Election for convention in June, 1857, boycotted by “free staters”“free staters” Proslavery delegates draft pro-slavery constitutionProslavery delegates draft pro-slavery constitution Buchanan, needing southern support, approved it, Buchanan, needing southern support, approved it,

sent it to Senatesent it to Senate Senators led by Douglas bitterly oppose itSenators led by Douglas bitterly oppose it

Lecompton Constitution, cont’dLecompton Constitution, cont’d

See text, page 423, third paragraph See text, page 423, third paragraph regarding voting in Kansasregarding voting in Kansas

•Constitution submitted to entire Kansas electorate, Constitution submitted to entire Kansas electorate, finally overwhelmingly defeatedfinally overwhelmingly defeated•ResultsResults

•Buchanan angered Northern Democrats [his own Buchanan angered Northern Democrats [his own party]party]•Convinced many Northern Dems the South was Convinced many Northern Dems the South was really in chargereally in charge•Republicans and Democrats thought Buchanan Republicans and Democrats thought Buchanan was slime was slime [doesn’t get his own party’s nomination [doesn’t get his own party’s nomination for a second term]for a second term]

The Panic of 1857

Financial panicFinancial panic U.S. grain exports to Europe U.S. grain exports to Europe

decreased in post-Crimean war decreased in post-Crimean war periodperiod

High speculation across many High speculation across many sectors of U.S. economysectors of U.S. economy

Working class riotsWorking class riots Short-lived depressionShort-lived depression

Sectionalism and the PanicSectionalism and the Panic

Panic of 1857 intensified sectional hostility more Panic of 1857 intensified sectional hostility more than class conflictthan class conflict

Many Northerners blamed the South for causing Many Northerners blamed the South for causing the depressionthe depression

Republicans demand protective tariffsRepublicans demand protective tariffsPost-panic:Post-panic:

Republicans made gains in congressional Republicans made gains in congressional elections and pushed for measures:elections and pushed for measures:Homestead ActHomestead ActLand grants to a transcontinental railroadLand grants to a transcontinental railroadConstruction of agricultural & mechanical Construction of agricultural & mechanical

collegescolleges

Labor Conditions in the NorthLabor Conditions in the North

Average per capita income: Average per capita income: 40% higher in North vs. South40% higher in North vs. South

On the edge of poverty:On the edge of poverty: many recent immigrants, day many recent immigrants, day

laborers, young, single womenlaborers, young, single women Wages and opportunities were still Wages and opportunities were still

greater in the North than anywhere greater in the North than anywhere else in the worldelse in the world

The “Free-Labor” IdeologyThe “Free-Labor” Ideology

““Free-labor ideology”: the Republican Free-labor ideology”: the Republican antislavery arguments of the 1850santislavery arguments of the 1850s

Slavery degraded what should be honorable Slavery degraded what should be honorable workwork

Abraham Lincoln: free labor systemAbraham Lincoln: free labor system Slavery as the antithesis of upward mobilitySlavery as the antithesis of upward mobility Slaves: “fatally fixed” in their position for lifeSlaves: “fatally fixed” in their position for life

Southerners countered that free labor was prone Southerners countered that free labor was prone to unrest and strikesto unrest and strikes

The Impending CrisisThe Impending Crisis

Hinton Rowan HelperHinton Rowan Helper The Impending Crisis of the SouthThe Impending Crisis of the South (1857) (1857) Book was banned throughout the SouthBook was banned throughout the South Aggravated sectional tensionsAggravated sectional tensions

Free speech not tolerated anymore in the Free speech not tolerated anymore in the SouthSouth

Postmasters refuse to deliver any abolitionist Postmasters refuse to deliver any abolitionist literatureliterature

In 1857, the In 1857, the Southern journalist Hinton Helper published The Southern journalist Hinton Helper published The Impending Crisis, an examination of slavery's impact on the SouthImpending Crisis, an examination of slavery's impact on the South. . He described how, in his estimation, the slaveowners had victimized He described how, in his estimation, the slaveowners had victimized small-scale white farmers, rendering it impossible for them to small-scale white farmers, rendering it impossible for them to compete against the free labor supplied by the slaves. compete against the free labor supplied by the slaves. He detailed the He detailed the superior prosperity of the North, a fact that few Southerners cared superior prosperity of the North, a fact that few Southerners cared to recognize. Helper advocated the freeing of the slaves and their to recognize. Helper advocated the freeing of the slaves and their return to Africa.return to Africa.

His book was extremely popular in the North; not surprisingly, it His book was extremely popular in the North; not surprisingly, it sold poorly in the South.sold poorly in the South.

Southern Non-SlaveholdersSouthern Non-Slaveholders

Bonds that held southern society togetherBonds that held southern society together Kinship, economic interest, and raceKinship, economic interest, and race Hope by slaveless to acquire slavesHope by slaveless to acquire slaves

““herrenvolk democracyherrenvolk democracy”” The equality of all who belonged to the The equality of all who belonged to the

“master race”“master race”

A southern yeoman farmer’s homeA southern yeoman farmer’s home

The Lincoln-Douglas DebatesThe Lincoln-Douglas Debates

•1858 Illinois contest for the Senate1858 Illinois contest for the Senate

•Although a state election, Although a state election, Lincoln and Douglas Lincoln and Douglas articulate the national debate on slaveryarticulate the national debate on slavery and its spread and its spread

•Illinois, although a free state had fairly severe “Black Illinois, although a free state had fairly severe “Black Laws” and in the southern part of the state was Laws” and in the southern part of the state was somewhat Southern-sympatheticsomewhat Southern-sympathetic

•Speeches are telegraphed nationwide, Douglas Speeches are telegraphed nationwide, Douglas already well known, Lincoln became well enough already well known, Lincoln became well enough known that he was Republican Presidential nominee 2 known that he was Republican Presidential nominee 2 years lateryears later

•LincolnLincoln

–““A house divided against itself cannot stand”A house divided against itself cannot stand”

–Slavery and freedom were at oddsSlavery and freedom were at odds

–Dred Scot could lead to slavery in free statesDred Scot could lead to slavery in free states

•DouglasDouglas

–Lincoln will provoke secessionLincoln will provoke secession

–Lincoln wanted equality for Blacks[Lincoln denied it, South Lincoln wanted equality for Blacks[Lincoln denied it, South believed it!]believed it!]

–If a new state wanted to have or not have slavery, let the voters If a new state wanted to have or not have slavery, let the voters

simply vote that way simply vote that way [the “Freeport Doctrine”[the “Freeport Doctrine” named named for the town where the speech was made]for the town where the speech was made]

Lincoln-Douglas debates cont’dLincoln-Douglas debates cont’d

Scene from one of the Lincoln-Douglas debatesScene from one of the Lincoln-Douglas debates

•Each debate was held in a Each debate was held in a circus like atmosphere, with circus like atmosphere, with bands and supporters bands and supporters marching with banners.marching with banners.•People came 50 miles or People came 50 miles or more to hear the debatesmore to hear the debates•The format was that each The format was that each had up to 2 hours to speak, had up to 2 hours to speak, followed by rebuttals and followed by rebuttals and summations, making some summations, making some of the 7 debates almost all of the 7 debates almost all day affairs!day affairs!

The Freeport DoctrineThe Freeport Doctrine

Lincoln lost the Senate seat, but won Lincoln lost the Senate seat, but won national famenational fame

Douglas’s Freeport Doctrine alienates Douglas’s Freeport Doctrine alienates southern Democratssouthern Democrats

Mississippi Senator Jefferson Davis Mississippi Senator Jefferson Davis proposed federal slave codes for new proposed federal slave codes for new territories, equally alienating northern territories, equally alienating northern Republicans and many Democrats Republicans and many Democrats

John Brown at Harpers FerryJohn Brown at Harpers Ferry

Brown’s plotBrown’s plot Attack federal arsenal at Harper’s Ferry VAAttack federal arsenal at Harper’s Ferry VA Arm slaves, who, he expected would rise up and free Arm slaves, who, he expected would rise up and free

themselvesthemselves Harpers Ferry, Virginia, 1859Harpers Ferry, Virginia, 1859

Seizes arsenal, anticipated slave revolt never happensSeizes arsenal, anticipated slave revolt never happens Brown captured by troops commanded by U.S. Army Col. Brown captured by troops commanded by U.S. Army Col.

Robert E. Lee, and Lt. J.E.B. StuartRobert E. Lee, and Lt. J.E.B. Stuart Brown tried in VA for treason, hangedBrown tried in VA for treason, hanged

Effect in South: Effect in South: Intensifies southern suspicions of Republicans Intensifies southern suspicions of Republicans and Abolitionistsand Abolitionists

Northern Reaction: Sympathy for a martyrNorthern Reaction: Sympathy for a martyr Thoreau pled for his freedom, many felt him a man of GodThoreau pled for his freedom, many felt him a man of God

Harpers Ferry, Virginia (now West Virginia)Harpers Ferry, Virginia (now West Virginia)

John Brown as he appeared at the time of the Harpers

Ferry raid, 1859

John Brown

““Though Brown and some of his Though Brown and some of his followers fought courageously, the followers fought courageously, the raid, for all practical purposes, was a raid, for all practical purposes, was a fiasco resulting in the death or fiasco resulting in the death or capture of the insurgents, but its capture of the insurgents, but its long-range effect on both northern long-range effect on both northern and southern emotions far exceeded and southern emotions far exceeded the wildest dreams of those who the wildest dreams of those who planned it. “planned it. “

Talk of secessionTalk of secession

•Expression of Southern outrage over Expression of Southern outrage over “Northern irresponsibility and “Northern irresponsibility and unconstitutional behavior”unconstitutional behavior”•Believed the North was treating the South as Believed the North was treating the South as inferiors, “Like slaves”inferiors, “Like slaves”•Spoke of the “slavery of the South to the Spoke of the “slavery of the South to the North”North”

Collapse of the Union 1860-1861Collapse of the Union 1860-1861

•Election of 1860Election of 1860•Republican Program: three objectivesRepublican Program: three objectives

•Higher protective tariffsHigher protective tariffs•Federal aid for internal improvementsFederal aid for internal improvements•Federal grants for 160 acre “homesteads” on Federal grants for 160 acre “homesteads” on public landspublic lands

•CandidatesCandidates•Abraham LincolnAbraham Lincoln wins nomination in a surprise wins nomination in a surprise over over William H. SewardWilliam H. Seward [due to Lincoln’s more [due to Lincoln’s more moderate position on slavery]moderate position on slavery]•Seward had made inflammatory speeches earlier, Seward had made inflammatory speeches earlier, calling for immediate abolitioncalling for immediate abolition•Some Republicans considered Seward Some Republicans considered Seward unelectableunelectable

Democratic dilemmaDemocratic dilemma•Dem. Convention in Charleston, S.C. split over platform Dem. Convention in Charleston, S.C. split over platform differences regarding protection of slavery in the differences regarding protection of slavery in the territoriesterritories

•Northern DemsNorthern Dems leave, go to Baltimore, hold separate leave, go to Baltimore, hold separate convention, convention, nominate Sen. Douglas of Illinoisnominate Sen. Douglas of Illinois [Lincoln’s [Lincoln’s former Senate race rival]former Senate race rival]•Southern DemsSouthern Dems nominate Buchanan’s VP John nominate Buchanan’s VP John Breckenridge Breckenridge of Kentuckyof Kentucky•Democratic Party is split along sectional linesDemocratic Party is split along sectional lines

•Constitutional Union partyConstitutional Union party•Formed from former southern Whigs, some former Formed from former southern Whigs, some former northern Whigsnorthern Whigs•No position on slaveryNo position on slavery•Nominate Nominate John BellJohn Bell of TN of TN

PositionsPositions•RepublicansRepublicans [Lincoln] [Lincoln]

•Wanted Congress to Wanted Congress to prohibit extension of slavery prohibit extension of slavery into new territoriesinto new territories

•Southern DemocratsSouthern Democrats [Breckenridge] [Breckenridge]•Wanted Congress to Wanted Congress to protect slavery in all new protect slavery in all new territoriesterritories

•Northern DemocratsNorthern Democrats [Douglas] [Douglas]•Still committed to Still committed to popular Sovereigntypopular Sovereignty

•Constitutional Union Party [Bell]Constitutional Union Party [Bell]•No position on slavery, just keep the Union togetherNo position on slavery, just keep the Union together

•The Vote:The Vote:•Lincoln won 180 of 303 Electoral votes [a majority]Lincoln won 180 of 303 Electoral votes [a majority]•Lincoln won Lincoln won no electoral votesno electoral votes in any southern state!! in any southern state!!

Abraham LincolnAbraham Lincoln 1809-18651809-1865Sixteenth PresidentSixteenth President 1861-1865 1861-1865

At the time of Lincoln’s election, At the time of Lincoln’s election, the “lame duck” period was from the “lame duck” period was from early November to March 4early November to March 4thth. . During this period, either During this period, either because he was afraid to, or because he was afraid to, or because he believed he hadn’t because he believed he hadn’t Constitutional authority, Constitutional authority, President Buchanan made little President Buchanan made little or no attempt to stop the collapse or no attempt to stop the collapse of the Union. Because of of the Union. Because of situations like this the 20situations like this the 20thth amendment moved inauguration amendment moved inauguration day up to early January.day up to early January.

Movement to secessionMovement to secession

•Southern positionSouthern position•New President hadn’t even appeared on ballot in most New President hadn’t even appeared on ballot in most southern statessouthern states•““Black Radical Republicans” were now in chargeBlack Radical Republicans” were now in charge

•Dec 20, 1860 – S.C. secedes from the UnionDec 20, 1860 – S.C. secedes from the Union•Feb 1, 1861 – had been joined by TX, LA, FL, GA., Feb 1, 1861 – had been joined by TX, LA, FL, GA., MS,and ALMS,and AL

•The “Deep South”, all cotton statesThe “Deep South”, all cotton states•Met at Montgomery AL, Feb 4Met at Montgomery AL, Feb 4thth, 1861, established the , 1861, established the Confederate States of AmericaConfederate States of America , with former Senator and , with former Senator and Secretary of War Secretary of War Jefferson Davis as PresidentJefferson Davis as President•Upper Southern states reject secession at this timeUpper Southern states reject secession at this time

•Fearing [correctly] that if it came to war it would be Fearing [correctly] that if it came to war it would be fought on their soilfought on their soil

Movement to warMovement to war•The Upper SouthThe Upper South

•VA, NC, TN, ARVA, NC, TN, AR•closer economic ties to North than deep Southcloser economic ties to North than deep South•VA’s western counties strongly anti-slaveryVA’s western counties strongly anti-slavery

•The Border StatesThe Border States•MD, KY, De, MOMD, KY, De, MO•Only MD had serious secessionist enthusiasm for slaveryOnly MD had serious secessionist enthusiasm for slavery

•The Crittenden CompromiseThe Crittenden Compromise•Proposed by moderate KY senator John CrittendenProposed by moderate KY senator John Crittenden•Several proposals to appease the SouthSeveral proposals to appease the South

•Compensate owners of runaway slavesCompensate owners of runaway slaves•Constitutional Amendment to ban interference with Constitutional Amendment to ban interference with slavery in Southern Statesslavery in Southern States•Constitutional Amendment restoring the MO Compromise Constitutional Amendment restoring the MO Compromise Line Line

•Opposed by Lincoln and Republicans, rejectedOpposed by Lincoln and Republicans, rejected

War!War!•Lincoln pledged to hold all Federal property in states Lincoln pledged to hold all Federal property in states that had secededthat had seceded•Specifically meant Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor Specifically meant Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor and Fort Pickens at Pensacolaand Fort Pickens at Pensacola•Sumter is under blockade and siege by SC, Lincoln Sumter is under blockade and siege by SC, Lincoln announces intention to resupply it by shipannounces intention to resupply it by ship•April 12, 1861: Confederates begin bombardment of April 12, 1861: Confederates begin bombardment of SumterSumter•April 13, Sumter SurrendersApril 13, Sumter Surrenders, Lincoln proclaims , Lincoln proclaims insurrection in lower South citing attack on Federal insurrection in lower South citing attack on Federal propertyproperty

Fort Sumter, 1860Fort Sumter, 1860

On April 10, 1861, Brig. Gen. Beauregard, in command of On April 10, 1861, Brig. Gen. Beauregard, in command of the provisional Confederate forces at Charleston, South the provisional Confederate forces at Charleston, South Carolina, demanded the surrender of the Union garrison Carolina, demanded the surrender of the Union garrison of Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. Garrison of Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. Garrison commander Anderson refused. On April 12, Confederate commander Anderson refused. On April 12, Confederate batteries opened fire on the fort, which was unable to reply batteries opened fire on the fort, which was unable to reply effectively. At 2:30 pm, April 13, Major Anderson effectively. At 2:30 pm, April 13, Major Anderson surrendered Fort Sumter, evacuating the garrison on the surrendered Fort Sumter, evacuating the garrison on the following day. The bombardment of Fort Sumter was the following day. The bombardment of Fort Sumter was the opening engagement of the American Civil War.opening engagement of the American Civil War.

Sumter was under fire from at least Sumter was under fire from at least three directions and was reduced to three directions and was reduced to rubble in places by the time Major rubble in places by the time Major Anderson surrenderedAnderson surrendered

War!War!•Lincoln calls for 75,000 militia to suppress the Lincoln calls for 75,000 militia to suppress the rebellionrebellion

•Seen as intention to wage war against the South, Seen as intention to wage war against the South, triggers secession of VA, NC, TN, and AR [the upper triggers secession of VA, NC, TN, and AR [the upper South] South] •The Confederacy is completeThe Confederacy is complete

•Many, even though favoring Union, resign from US Many, even though favoring Union, resign from US Army [like Robert E. Lee, others, rather than fight Army [like Robert E. Lee, others, rather than fight against their home state. Lee was offered command of against their home state. Lee was offered command of the Army of the Potomac, turned it down out of loyalty the Army of the Potomac, turned it down out of loyalty to Virginia]to Virginia]•The Civil War had begunThe Civil War had begun