The Dred Scott Decision
This worksheet explores the historical context, key arguments, and lasting impact of the Supreme Court's Dred Scott v. Sandford decision.
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The Dred Scott Decision
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Read each question carefully and provide thoughtful answers based on your knowledge of the Dred Scott v. Sandford Supreme Court case.
1. In what year was the Dred Scott v. Sandford Supreme Court decision delivered?
1846
1850
1857
1861
2. What was the Supreme Court's ruling regarding Dred Scott's citizenship?
He was a citizen because he lived in free territories.
He was a citizen because he was a free man.
He was not a citizen and therefore could not sue in federal court.
The Court did not rule on his citizenship.
3. The Chief Justice who delivered the majority opinion in the Dred Scott case was .
4. The Dred Scott decision declared the unconstitutional, further escalating tensions over slavery.
5. The Dred Scott decision affirmed that Congress had the power to prohibit slavery in U.S. territories.
True
False
6. Dred Scott eventually gained his freedom after the Supreme Court's decision.
True
False
7. Briefly explain the main arguments Dred Scott's legal team made to assert his freedom.
8. Describe the impact of the Dred Scott decision on political discourse and the growing divide between the North and South.