Compromise of 1856

The Compromise of 1856 was a political agreement aimed at easing tensions between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions in the United States. During this period, the nation was deeply divided over the issue of slavery, particularly as new territories sought statehood. The compromise attempted to balance interests by allowing popular sovereignty, where settlers in a territory could decide on the legality of slavery. This approach sought to quell conflicts, especially after the violent disputes in "Bleeding Kansas." Ultimately, it was a temporary solution that reflected the growing sectional divide leading up to the Civil War.