The Westward Expansion & the Problem of Slavery Flashcards
How many states were there when the USA was first formed?
13 states
What is a constitution?
The framework used to govern a country
Was slavery illegal under the US constitution?
No. It was thought that slavery would disappear over time in the USA.
In which direction did the USA expand?
West. It is known as the ‘westward expansion’
As the USA grew, what issue grew with it?
Slavery
Who is an abolitionist?
A person who wants to ban slavery
What years make up the 19th Century?
The years 1801-1900
How did many people in the northern parts of the USA view slavery?
They believed it was morally wrong and they wanted to abolish (ban) it
How did many people in the southern parts of the USA view slavery?
They believed slavery was legal and a necessary part of the southern economy
What is ‘the Union’?
All of the states that make up the United States of America
What name was given to new land acquired (received) by the USA?
A territory
How did a territory become part of the Union?
It had to apply to become a state, which then formed part of the United States of America
What was the main issue when new states joined the Union?
If they would be ‘slave states’ or ‘free states’
What is the Senate?
Part of the American Congress (parliament). The Senate passes (creates) laws.
How many senators represented each state in the Senate?
2 for each state in the Union
