HTS Writing Analysis


 

 

Prompt: Assess how Manifest Destiny in combination with the slavery issue contributed to secession and Civil War

 

Source: Thomas A. Bailey et al., The American Pageant: A history of the Republic

 

The map of the Compromise of 1850 highlights key territorial acquisitions, providing insight into potential conflicts over the expansion of slavery in the new territories. The compromise was reached during the debate over California statehood. The compromise added California as a free state, while passing a tougher fugitive slave law and allowing popular sovereignty to determine that status of slavery in Utah and New Mexico, ending the territorial division established at the 36”30 line in Missouri Compromise of 1820. Therefore, the purpose of this document supports the argument that the status of slavery in the territories after 1848 was a key cause of increased tensions in Antebellum America.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Describe the document as it relates to prompt above.  [3 points]

 

The [map] of the Compromise of 1850 [highlights] key territorial acquisitions, providing insight into potential conflicts over the expansion of slavery in the new territories.

 

 

2. Frame the historical context of the document. [3 points]

 

The compromise was reached during the debate over California statehood. The compromise added California as a free state, while passing a tougher fugitive slave law and allowing popular sovereignty to determine that status of slavery in Utah and New Mexico, ending the territorial division established at the 36'30 line in Missouri Compromise of 1820.

 

3.  Evaluate the source [Intended Audience, Purpose, Point of View] [3 points]

 

Therefore, the [purpose] of this document supports the argument that the status of slavery in the territories after 1848 was a key cause of increased tensions in Antebellum America.

 

4. Identify ONE additional piece of specific historical evidence (beyond that found in the documents) relevant to the argument. 

 

Missouri Statehood [1820] First serious controversy over slavery since the creation of the Constitution. 1820 – There were 11 free states and 11 slave states.  if we admitted Missouri that would upset the balance in favor of the slave states. When Missouri did apply for admission to the union as a slave state an amendment was added to the bill by Representative Tallmadge (NY)

 

 

5. Analysis and Reasoning: Provide of specific historical evidence. Using evidence to corroborate (evidence that tends to support a proposition), qualify, or modify an argument that addresses the question. [3 points]

 

Ever since the 1790’s, U.S. foreign policy had been centered on expanding westward, protecting U.S. interests abroad, and limiting foreign influences in the Americas.  The booming post civil war economy created the basis for a major shift in U.S relations with the rest of the world, creating a new series of debates as United States government sought to extend and solidify its global influence