Question

Was the compromise of 1850 a wise effort to balance sectional differences or a futile attempt to push the slavery issue out of sight?

Answer 1

The compromise of 1850 turned out to be a misguided attempt to bury the issue of slavery. Even though it brought the country together at first, the results didn't last. The North wasn't on board because the Fugitive Slave Law required that they help return any and all runaway slaves.