The Dred Scott v Sanford case was a landmark Supreme Court decision in 1857 that ruled African Americans, whether free or enslaved, were not citizens and therefore could not sue in federal court. It also declared the Missouri Compromise unconstitutional, allowing slavery to extend into new territories.
Related terms
Missouri Compromise: A law passed in 1820 that allowed for the admission of Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state to maintain the balance between slave states and free states. It also prohibited slavery north of the 36°30' latitude line in the Louisiana Purchase territory.
Citizenship: The legal status granted to individuals by their government, entitling them to certain rights and protections within that country.
Supreme Court: The highest judicial body in the United States responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring their constitutionality.