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The Dred Scott Decision |
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Dred Scott was an African-American slave that was taken from the slave state of Missouri to the free state of Illinois and then to the free territory of Wisconsin. Later, he moved back to Missouri with his master. After his master died, Scott sued for his freedom in court. After many years of appeals, the case was finally heard in the Supreme Court. There was bad news though. The Chief Justice voted that because he was black, he was not a citizen and had no right to sue in court. The decision also declared the Missouri compromise unconstitutional. |
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The Dred Scott Decision Room |
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Abolitionists found the controversial court ruling outraging. They felt that Southerners wanted to expand slavery throughout the nation and ulltimately take over the nation. Free blacks were hurt by the Dred Scott Decision as well as slaves. Freed blacks that were voting citizens now had no rights and could be put back into slavery, ending their lives and careers. The Decsion devastated Abraham Lincoln and he spoke passionately about his view on it. The decision was a key factor in the north's and the south's equal enmity. |
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Dred Scott |
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The Dred Scott Room in the new wing will contain information about the trial and the infamous decision. There will also be an interactive lesson about the trial. Visitors will be able to scroll through evidence, read both points of the trial and ultimately judge for themselves the outcome. It is sure to enhance people's interest and knowledge on the subject. |
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Abraham Lincoln, who spoke passionately about the Dred Scott Decision |
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