Zachary Taylor and Slavery Issues

In 1848, the issue of slavery became prominent in America as the war with Mexico added new territories. Northerners wanted these states to be free, while Southerners opposed any restrictions on slavery. Zachary Taylor, a military leader with no political experience, was elected president. His main concern was national unity, and he opposed the Whigs' plan to admit California as a free state. Taylor threatened military action against any southern state attempting to secede. He died unexpectedly in 1850, and Millard Fillmore became president.

What major event in 1848 intensified the issue of slavery in America?

• The Civil War

• The Industrial Revolution

• The war with Mexico

• The Gold Rush

Why was Zachary Taylor's political stance unknown before his election?

• He was a journalist

• He was a foreign diplomat

• He had never been elected to any office

• He was a private businessman

What was Zachary Taylor's main concern during his presidency?

• Foreign policy

• National unity

• Economic growth

• Technological advancement

What was the Whigs' plan regarding California and new territories?

• To make all new territories free soil

• To allow each state to decide on slavery immediately

• To admit California as a slave state

• To admit California as a free state and decide slavery in new territories later

How did Taylor respond to the Whigs' plan on slavery?

• He fully supported it

• He refused to support it

• He remained neutral

• He proposed an alternative plan

What drastic action did Taylor threaten against southern states that tried to secede?

• Ignoring their actions

• Diplomatic negotiations

• Economic sanctions

• Marching an army against them

Who became President after Zachary Taylor's death?

• Franklin Pierce

• Millard Fillmore

• James Buchanan

• Andrew Johnson