Sectionalism: Sectionalism refers to loyalty or support for one's own region over national interests. It played a significant role in preventing compromise as both the North and South prioritized their regional concerns over finding common solutions.
Kansas-Nebraska Act: This act allowed settlers in Kansas and Nebraska territories to determine whether they would allow slavery or not through popular sovereignty. The heated debates surrounding this act further deepened divisions between North and South, making compromise more difficult.
Fugitive Slave Act: The Fugitive Slave Act required all citizens (including Northerners) to assist in capturing escaped slaves. This law enraged many Northerners who were opposed to slavery, fueling tensions between the regions and undermining potential compromises.