The Compromise of 1850 comprised five bills adopted by the U.S. Congress. It was initially aimed at defusing the political conflict between slave-holding and free states. Although it temporary eased the tension between two confronting parties, eventually it seemed to satisfy neither. It was stipulated by mutual disagreements over its provisions. In fact, it was its passing that among other things brought the country on the verge of war. …show more content…
It represented an attempt to avert the crisis existing between the southern and northern states. The crisis erupted after the end of the Mexican War (1846-1848), “…that was destined to expand greatly American territorial possessions in the West” (Searles, “The Compromise of 1850”). Clay’s main aim was to save the Union by preventing its dissolution after California had requested to be admitted on terms of slavery prohibition throughout its territory. Among other provisions the most important proposals included admitting California as a free state and toughening of the Fugitive Slave Act of