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The Crime Against Kansas

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description The Crime Against Kansas Overview

"The Crime Against Kansas" was a definitive 1856 speech delivered in the United States Senate by abolitionist Senator Charles Sumner of Massachusetts. The address strongly condemned the pro-slavery violence occurring in Kansas and included severe personal insults directed at Senator Andrew Butler of South Carolina. In retaliation for these insults, Representative Preston Brooks, Butler's cousin, physically attacked Sumner on the Senate floor with a walking cane. This violent incident significantly heightened sectional tensions in the years preceding the American Civil War.

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Who delivered 'The Crime Against Kansas' speech?

The speech was delivered by Senator Charles Sumner of Massachusetts on May 19 and 20, 1856. Sumner gave this fiery oration on the floor of the United States Senate.

What was the main argument of Charles Sumner's 'The Crime Against Kansas' speech?

Sumner vehemently condemned the pro-slavery violence occurring in the Kansas Territory, famously mocking Southern senators like Andrew Butler. He argued forcefully against the admission of Kansas under a pro-slavery constitution.

What historical event was triggered by 'The Crime Against Kansas' speech?

The speech directly provoked the violent 'Bleeding Sumner' incident, where Representative Preston Brooks of South Carolina attacked Sumner. Brooks beat the senator severely with a heavy cane on the Senate floor.

Why was 'The Crime Against Kansas' considered historically significant?

It is widely viewed as one of the most pivotal and polarizing moments leading up to the American Civil War. The speech and the resulting assault highlighted the extreme, violent tensions between the Northern and Southern states over slavery.

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