Between 1820 and 1861, the nation grew increasingly divided as it struggled to answer difficult questions concerning slavery. Should slavery be allowed to spread to the West? Should slavery be abolished throughout the nation? For a time, northerners and southerners settled their differences through compromises. Gradually, however, violence became more and more common. In 1860, voters elected Abraham Lincoln, a member of the anti-slavery Republican party, to be the next President of the United States. In response, southern states withdrew from the Union. The North and the South then prepared for war.

Additional Activities

• "Why Study History?" Activity: Have students use the Internet to examine Abraham Lincoln as a hero and role model. (See Teacher's Edition, page 437.)
  
  
• Check out the Student Internet Activities, which focus on the life of Abraham Lincoln and Ft. Sumter.
  
  

Section 1: The Slavery Issue in the West

Section 2: The Crisis Turns Violent

Section 3: A New Party Challenges Slavery

Section 4: The Nation Splits in Two