What was the concept of Popular Sovereignty as it was used in the years leading up to the Civil War?
Popular sovereignty left the question of slavery in the territories up to the settlers.
http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/history/A0839723.html
Popular sovereignty was a concept that emerged in the years leading up to the Civil War in the United States. It was a political doctrine that stated that the people of a territory or state should collectively have the right to decide, through a vote or other democratic process, whether to permit or prohibit slavery within their borders. According to this concept, the power to determine the status of slavery in a territory rested with the settlers themselves, rather than being imposed by the federal government.
To understand the concept of popular sovereignty, one could explore various historical sources such as books, articles, and primary documents related to the Civil War era. These sources might include the writings of prominent figures like Stephen A. Douglas, who played a significant role in advocating for popular sovereignty. Additionally, analyzing historical speeches, congressional debates, and state constitutions from that time can provide valuable insights into the concept and its application.
Online resources like the Infoplease website (linked above) can also be useful in explaining the concept of popular sovereignty. Infoplease provides a brief overview and historical context of this concept, which can serve as a starting point for further research.
Ultimately, delving into the political and social climate of the United States during the years leading up to the Civil War is necessary to grasp the concept of popular sovereignty and its significance in the national debate over slavery.