The Great Compromises (1820–1850)
Focus: How the government tried (and failed) to balance Free vs.
Slave states.
1. The Missouri Compromise (1820)
● The Conflict: Missouri wants to enter as a slave state,
upsetting the 11-11 balance.
● The Deal: Missouri = Slave; Maine = Free.
● The Line: 36°30' line drawn—North is free, South is slave.
2. The Compromise of 1850
● California: Enters as a Free State (Huge win for North).
● Fugitive Slave Act: Strict new law requiring Northerners to
return escaped slaves (Huge win for South/Major cause of
tension).
● Popular Sovereignty: New territories (Utah/New Mexico) get
to vote on slavery.
Focus: How the government tried (and failed) to balance Free vs.
Slave states.
1. The Missouri Compromise (1820)
● The Conflict: Missouri wants to enter as a slave state,
upsetting the 11-11 balance.
● The Deal: Missouri = Slave; Maine = Free.
● The Line: 36°30' line drawn—North is free, South is slave.
2. The Compromise of 1850
● California: Enters as a Free State (Huge win for North).
● Fugitive Slave Act: Strict new law requiring Northerners to
return escaped slaves (Huge win for South/Major cause of
tension).
● Popular Sovereignty: New territories (Utah/New Mexico) get
to vote on slavery.
