Civil War Pressure

This paragraph-writing task asks students to explain how the Dred Scott decision intensified sectional tensions and pushed the U.S. closer to the Civil War. Using guiding questions, learners cite evidence to explain the ruling’s impact on the North, South, and national unity.

Curriculum Matched Skills

Social Studies – Causes of the Civil War

Civics – Understanding Legal Impact on National Policy

Writing – Evidence-Based Explanatory Paragraphs

Critical Thinking – Linking Judicial Rulings to Historical Consequences

This worksheet is part of our Dred Scott Decision collection.