Question

Why do you think jefferson called the slavery issue a "fireball in the night"?

Answer 1

“A Fireball in the Night.” This is what Thomas Jefferson called the “Missouri Compromise.” Missouri Compromise: no slavery allowed north, 36 degrees, 30 minutes latitude.

Answer 2

Thomas Jefferson referred to the Missouri Compromise as a " fire bell in the night" because of the fact that he saw it as an extremely pressing matter. A fire bell in the night indicates there is an emergency and Jefferson saw the matter as an emergency.