The term "North and South states" refers to the geographical regions of the United States that were divided along cultural, economic, and political lines. The North consisted of states that opposed slavery, while the South consisted of states that relied on slavery for their agricultural economy.
Related terms
Compromise of 1850: This was a package of laws passed by Congress aimed at resolving tensions between free and slave states regarding issues such as territorial expansion and fugitive slaves.
Kansas-Nebraska Act: This act allowed residents in Kansas and Nebraska territories to decide whether or not they would allow slavery within their borders through popular sovereignty.
Fugitive Slave Act: This law required all citizens to assist in capturing escaped slaves, regardless of their personal beliefs about slavery.