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Lesson 4 of 84 · The Civil War

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The Compromise of 1850

🌍Mission Brief #4

The Compromise of 1850 was a series of laws aimed at resolving the growing tensions over slavery in the United States.

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Walk into the past. Find out who, what, and why.

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Then & Now

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The Compromise of 1850 was a series of laws aimed at resolving the growing tensions over slavery in the United States. As part of the compromise, California was admitted as a free state, while the territories of New Mexico and Utah were allowed to decide for themselves whether to allow slavery. Additionally, the Fugitive Slave Act was strengthened, requiring citizens to help capture runaway enslaved people. Although the compromise aimed to create peace, it ultimately led to more conflict and division in the country.

Key Facts

1

California was admitted as a free state under the Compromise of 1850.

2

The territories of New Mexico and Utah were allowed to decide on slavery.

3

The Fugitive Slave Act was strengthened as part of the compromise.

Timeline

1920

Women gain the right to vote (19th Amendment)

1929

The Great Depression begins

1941

The U.S. enters World War II

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 2

What did the Compromise of 1850 allow California to become?

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Why this still matters

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The Compromise of 1850

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The Compromise of 1850 — The Civil War | 5th Grade Social Studies | LittleActivity