AP U.S 5.4 The Compromise of 1850

Front

Why were Southerners eager to find new land during the pro-expansionist period?

Back

To cultivate using enslaved labor

Answer explanation

Southerners sought new land primarily to cultivate cash crops like cotton using enslaved labor, which was central to their economy and expansionist goals during this period.

Front

What happened to Walker's scheme in Central America?

Back

It collapsed.

Answer explanation

Walker's scheme in Central America ultimately collapsed due to a combination of local resistance, logistical challenges, and lack of support, failing to achieve its intended goals.

Front

What was the significance of the Hay-Pauncefote Treaty of 1901?

Back

It allowed the US to build a canal without British involvement

Answer explanation

The Hay-Pauncefote Treaty of 1901 was significant because it allowed the US to construct a canal in Central America without British involvement, effectively ending the restrictions imposed by the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty.

Front

What was the shared interest of both America and Great Britain regarding the canal?

Back

To provide a shortcut for travel

Answer explanation

Both America and Great Britain shared the interest in providing a shortcut for travel through the canal, which would significantly reduce the time and distance for maritime navigation between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Front

In what year was the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty signed?

Back

1850

Answer explanation

The Clayton-Bulwer Treaty was signed in 1850 between the United States and Great Britain, addressing the construction of a canal in Central America. This makes 1850 the correct answer.

Front

What was one of the main reasons for the Gadsden Purchase? Options: To build a canal, To establish a military base, To find gold, To create a railroad route

Back

To create a railroad route

Answer explanation

The Gadsden Purchase was primarily aimed at facilitating a southern route for a transcontinental railroad, making 'To create a railroad route' the correct answer. This was crucial for economic expansion and connectivity.

Front

Which present-day states are affected by the Gadsden Purchase? Options: California and Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma, Utah and Colorado

Back

Arizona and New Mexico

Answer explanation

The Gadsden Purchase in 1854 involved land that is now part of southern Arizona and New Mexico. Therefore, the correct answer is Arizona and New Mexico, as they are the present-day states affected by this purchase.

Front

Which party took no position on slavery in the territories?

Back

Whigs

Answer explanation

The Whigs took no definitive stance on slavery in the territories, aiming to appeal to both pro- and anti-slavery factions. This indecisiveness ultimately contributed to their decline as a political party.

Front

What did Great Britain and The U.S. agree to in the Clayton -Bulwer Treaty (1850)?

Back

Neither nation would attempt to take exclusive control of any future canal route in Central America.

Answer explanation

The Clayton-Bulwer Treaty (1850) established that neither Great Britain nor the U.S. would seek exclusive control over any future canal routes in Central America, ensuring joint cooperation in this region.

Front

Which politician from Kentucky was in charge of the Compromise of 1850 and made it?

Back

Henry Clay

Answer explanation

Henry Clay, a prominent politician from Kentucky, played a crucial role in crafting the Compromise of 1850, which aimed to ease tensions between slave and free states. His leadership was key in its formation.