Missouri Compromise Line and State Balance

Begin with the timeline for the big picture, then use the reactions chart for perspective. The Missouri Compromise map works well on its own as a short lesson on geography and power in Congress.

Map the Missouri Compromise line and track the balance of states in the Senate. The directions on the page read: Read the passage and the table. Then answer 1 and 2 from the table. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade Causes of the Civil War, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

In 1820 Missouri entered as a slave state and Maine as a state without slavery. A line drawn across western lands limited where slavery could spread.

The sheets cover the Dred Scott decision, the Harpers Ferry raid, the Fugitive Slave Act, Uncle Tom's Cabin and Bleeding Kansas, among others. Students choose events and write what each did to tension.

In December 1819 there were 11 states without slavery and 11 slave states, so each side held 22 Senate seats. Missouri's request to enter with slavery put that balance at risk.