It was first reported to the Supreme Court in March of 1857. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 that neither freed slaves nor their descendants could sue in federal court. As a result, Dred Scott would have to remain enslaved in Missouri under state law. The Dred Scott decision was hailed in the South as a victory for slavery. When it was announced, the North was divided. The Republican Party committed to eradicating slavery by amending the U.S. Constitution. At this period, slavery appeared to be spreading.
