The question of slavery refers to the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding whether or not slavery should be allowed in new territories acquired by the United States. This issue played a significant role in shaping American politics and ultimately led to the Civil War.
Related terms
Popular Sovereignty: Popular sovereignty is the principle that allows residents of a territory or state to decide for themselves whether or not to permit slavery. It was implemented through legislation such as the Kansas-Nebraska Act.
Kansas-Nebraska Act: The Kansas-Nebraska Act was a law passed in 1854 that allowed residents of those territories to vote on whether they would allow slavery within their borders, thus implementing popular sovereignty.
Dred Scott Decision: The Dred Scott decision was a Supreme Court ruling in 1857 that stated enslaved individuals were property and could not sue for freedom. This decision further fueled tensions over the question of slavery by denying Congress's power to regulate it in territories.