Throughout the early and mid-nineteenth century, the United States struggled over the issues of territorial expansion and the extension of slavery in new states. The issue appeared again in 1850 when California applied for statehood with a constitution that banned slavery. Senator Daniel Webster rose on March 7, 1850 to give what would become one of the most famous political speeches of his day. What did Webster have to say regarding the morality of slavery and the importance of unity in the nation?

This lesson is adapted from materials contained in the Bill of Rights Institute’s U.S. History resource entitled Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness: A History of the American Experiment. This free online resource covers 1491 to the present day, is aligned to the College Board's AP U.S. History framework, and is available for use today! To learn more and to receive updates, visit our website.