Missouri Compromise
In 1820, the first of several debates over the expansion of both the United States and the institution of slavery took place. Missouri wished to enter the union as a slave state, however, this would grant slave-holding states the majority in the Senate. This arrangement was unacceptable to the industrial North, which did not depend upon slavery as the South did.

Congress passed the Missouri Compromise which would allow Missouri to enter as a slave-holding state and Maine as a free state. This act also banned slavery in the Louisiana Territory north of the 36 degree 30 minute line of latitude which was the southern border of Missouri.

Created by Thomas C. Caswell
© 2001 New York State High School Regents Exam Prep Center