Question

The principle of popular sovereignty is best demonstrated in A. the political bipartisanship needed to pass the Kansas-Nebraska Act. B. the ability of abolitionists to hold public protests advocating for an end to slavery. C. the proposal that the Nebraska Territory would decide for itself whether to allow slavery. D. the right of slaves such as Dred Scott to petition the court system for their freedom.

Answer 1

Answer: C. the proposal that the Nebraska Territory would decide for itself whether to allow slavery.

Explanation:

The concept of popular sovereignty states that only the residents of the territory can choose whether or not slavery is allowed.

The Kansas-Nebraska Act (1854), proposed by Stephen A. Douglas, stated popular sovereignty to recognize the settlers´ right to make that decision within the new state. This act raised rather than reduced sectional conflicts, leading to Bleeding Kansas, a period of violence foregoing the American Civil War.