The 1st Problem
California
In the early part of 1848, America won the Mexican American War. In response to winning America acquired California, Texas, and other lands.
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After discovering gold and the gold rush in California in the latter part of 1849. The Union wanted to admit it as a state. However, there was an issue. The state didn't fall above or below the 36 30 line ( the lie that outlined the land that would be slave states or not ). Instead, it fell right in the middle. This caused great debate because California tried joining the Union as a free state.
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This problem would be addressed in the Compromise of 1850.
PROBLEMS
The 2nd Problem
New Mexico and Utah
The problem arose when Texas was given ten million dollars to buy some of its land. This land became New Mexico and Utah which became a big problem.
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They both lay beneath the 36 30 line making them both have slavery. However, this brought great resentment because then the Northern States would lose power in the Senate. It would become ill balanced. This lead to debates questioning the Compromise of 1820 and whether these states should be free or have slavery.
