Question

Which of the following increased sectional tensions in the 1850s? the Mexican American War the Mexican Cession the Fugitive Slave Act the California Gold Rush

Answer 1

The Fugitive Slave Act. Many Northerners actively ignored it.

Answer 2

The Fugitive Slave Act increased sectional tensions in the 1850s. Option C is correct.

The Fugitive Slave Act, also known as the Fugitive Slave Law, was passed by the United States Congress on September 18, 1850, as part of the Compromise of 1850 between Southern slave-holding interests and Northern Free-Soilers. This law allowed for the capture and return of slaves who had fled within the territory of the United States.