The introduction of the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854 was the result of political maneuvering by Senator Stephen Douglas of Illinois, who
A) hoped to swing the balance of power in favor of the free-states by encouraging popular referendum on the issue.
B) was appealing to constituents who were long victims of Indian violence by aiming to strip Indians of long-held territory.
C) hoped to get support for his railroad from Southerners by enabling slavery in the West.
D) was politically indebted to the Democratic Party and hoped to gain favor for his next campaign.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Kansas-Nebraska Act, introduced by Senator Stephen Douglas, aimed to organize the territories of Kansas and Nebraska under the principle of popular sovereignty, allowing settlers to decide on the legality of slavery. This was partly to gain Southern support for a transcontinental railroad with a northern route, benefiting his Illinois constituents.

The Introduction of the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854 Was the Result