6 März 1857 Jahr - Dred Scott v. Sanford

Beschreibung:

1. What is it?
The Supreme Court decided that African Americans were not citizens so could not sue someone (even if they were free). They also ruled that Congress did not have the authority to ban slavery. Finally, the Court said that slaves were property, therefore, slave-owners were protected by the 5th Amendment.

2. When did it happen?
March 6th, 1857

3. Who was involved?
- Dred Scott- A slave bought by John Emerson, Emerson moved Scott to the Wisconsin Territory, where slavery was banned.
- John Emerson- Owner of Dred Scott, his death left ownership of the Scott family to his wife.
- Eiiza Irene Sanford- The wife of John Emerson, Scott tried to buy his freedom from her but she refused. Scott sued her because he currently lived in a territory where slavery was banned.

4. Where did it happen?
Wisconsin Territory

5. One major cause
The United States was very split in opinion regarding slavery. For the most part, Northerners believed it should be banned while Southerners believed it should stay. This disagreement lead to the events that Dred Scott believed were reason for suing for his freedom.

6. One major effect
The decision of this case indirectly resulted in the start of the American Civil War. The controversial decision of the Court lead to increased tensions between those in the North who were against slavery and those in the South who were for it. These tensions would eventually result in the Civil War.