Question

The Lecompton Constitution was written so that Kansas

a. could enter the Union as either a slave state or a free state.
b. would hold a popular referendum on slavery after admission to the Union.
c. would permit temporary residents like the abolitionists and "border ruffians" to vote.
d. would allow slavery but prohibit the slave trade.
e. could only apply for statehood by permitting slavery.

Answer 1

The Lecompton Constitution was written to permit slavery in Kansas and required the state to apply for statehood by allowing slavery. However, it faced opposition from anti-slavery advocates and was ultimately defeated in a popular referendum. The correct answer is option e.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Lecompton Constitution was written to permit slavery in Kansas, making it apply for statehood only if it allowed slavery. It was a pro-slavery constitution that was supported by President Buchanan and the Democrats. However, it faced opposition from anti-slavery advocates such as Democratic Senator Stephen A. Douglas and Free Soilers. The constitution was ultimately defeated in a popular referendum, with the majority of voters choosing a constitution with no slavery.