Question

In 1849, California wanted to enter the Union as a _____ (free/slave) state, potentially upsetting the balance between the free and slave states in the U.S. Senate. In an attempt to avert a crisis between ______ (North/South; Democrats/Republicans; slaves/slave owners; California/Texas) the Compromise of 1850 was passed. It consisted of five laws that dealt with the issue of slavery.

a) Free; North/South
b) Slave; North/South
c) Free; Democrats/Republicans
d) Slave; Democrats/Republicans

Answer 1

In 1849, California wanted to enter the Union as a free state, leading to a crisis between the North and South. The Compromise of 1850, consisting of five laws, allowed California's admission as a free state and attempted to address the divisions over slavery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Compromise of 1850

In 1849, California wanted to enter the Union as a free state, which potentially upset the delicate balance between free and slave states in the U.S. Senate. To prevent a crisis between the North and South, Congress passed the Compromise of 1850. This compromise included five laws geared towards addressing the contentious issue of slavery in the new territories and states. First, it allowed California to enter the Union as a free state. Secondly, the New Mexico and Utah territories would decide the issue of slavery through popular sovereignty. Thirdly, Texas gave up some of its land to New Mexico in exchange for federal debt relief. Additionally, the slave trade (though not slavery itself) was abolished in the District of Columbia. Lastly, the new and more stringent Fugitive Slave Law was enacted, requiring the return of escaped slaves to their owners even if they were found in free states.