Furthermore, the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, ignited a spark within both regions. Originally, the Free Soil Party had hope to convert the west to free labor territories and create more opportunities for white men. “Let the soil of our extensive domains be kept free for the hardy pioneers of our own land, and the oppressed and banished of other lands, seeking homes of comfort and fields of enterprise in the new world” (“Free Soil Party Platform”). The Kansas-Nebraska territory resided above the Missouri Compromise’s 36 degrees 30 minute Line; therefore, should not be admitted as a slave state. However, Senator Stephan Douglas dismantled the comprise and allowed settlers to decide the fate of the state; free or slave. “For many Northerns, probably
