Border Ruffians

Border Ruffians were pro-slavery activists from the Southern United States who traveled to Kansas during the mid-1850s. Their goal was to influence the outcome of local elections and establish Kansas as a slave state, particularly during the violent period known as "Bleeding Kansas." They often used intimidation and violence to achieve their aims, clashing with anti-slavery settlers. This conflict highlighted the deep divisions over slavery in America and contributed to the growing tensions that eventually led to the Civil War. The term "Border Ruffians" reflects their aggressive tactics in this contentious struggle over territorial rights.