The Dred Scott v. Sandford Decision
This worksheet explores the landmark Supreme Court case Dred Scott v. Sandford, examining its historical context, key rulings, and lasting impact on American society and the path to the Civil War.
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The Dred Scott v. Sandford Decision
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Use complete sentences for short answer questions.
1. What was the central question addressed by the Supreme Court in the Dred Scott v. Sandford case?
Whether states had the right to secede from the Union.
Whether enslaved persons were citizens and could sue in federal court.
The legality of the Fugitive Slave Act.
The economic impact of slavery on the Southern states.
2. Who was the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court during the Dred Scott v. Sandford case?
John Marshall
Roger B. Taney
Salmon P. Chase
Earl Warren
3. The Dred Scott decision declared the unconstitutional, further escalating tensions over slavery.
4. The Supreme Court ruled that African Americans, whether enslaved or free, could not be .
5. Dred Scott was granted his freedom by the Supreme Court's final ruling.
True
False
6. The Dred Scott decision is considered one of the contributing factors to the outbreak of the American Civil War.
True
False
7. Briefly explain why Dred Scott believed he should be free.
8. Describe the immediate impact of the Dred Scott decision on the abolitionist movement and the political landscape of the United States.
Dred Scott, whose legal battle led to the infamous Supreme Court decision.