During the debate over California statehood which political figures refused to compromise regarding the expansion of slavery
During the debate over California statehood, several prominent political figures refused to compromise regarding the expansion of slavery. The two most notable figures were Henry Clay, known as the "Great Compromiser," and John C. Calhoun, a staunch defender of slavery and states' rights.
Henry Clay, a senator from Kentucky, proposed a series of compromise measures known as the Compromise of 1850. This compromise aimed to balance the interests of both free and slave states and resolve the political tensions surrounding the expansion of slavery. However, Clay's proposal faced opposition from several quarters, including from representatives from the South who wanted more explicit protections for slavery.
John C. Calhoun, a senator from South Carolina and one of the leading advocates for the slaveholding states, vehemently opposed any compromise that would restrict the expansion of slavery. He argued that the federal government had no power to ban slavery in the territories and demanded the recognition and protection of slaveholders' rights.
While these two figures played significant roles in the debate over California statehood and the expansion of slavery, it's important to note that there were numerous other political figures involved in the discussions, each with their own perspectives and interests.