APUSH UNIT 5 Assessment

Front

Which event in 1845 contributed to the Mexican-American War? Options: The Gadsden Purchase, The Oregon Trail, The Texas Annexation, The Compromise of 1850

Back

The Texas Annexation

Answer explanation

The Texas Annexation in 1845 was a key event that heightened tensions between the U.S. and Mexico, as Mexico viewed it as an act of aggression, ultimately leading to the outbreak of the Mexican-American War.

Front

What did the Wilmot Proviso (1846) propose?

Back

Banning slavery in land acquired from Mexico

Answer explanation

The Wilmot Proviso proposed banning slavery in any territory acquired from Mexico as a result of the Mexican-American War, aiming to prevent the expansion of slavery into new lands.

Front

Who was a key figure in the abolitionist movement?

Back

Frederick Douglass

Answer explanation

Frederick Douglass was a prominent abolitionist, known for his powerful speeches and writings advocating for the end of slavery. Unlike the other figures listed, he dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of enslaved people.

Front

What did the Compromise of 1850 achieve?

Back

Admitted California as a free state

Answer explanation

The Compromise of 1850 admitted California as a free state, balancing the interests of free and slave states. This was a key achievement, while it did not ban slavery in all new territories or establish the Oregon Trail.

Front

What was the outcome of the Dred Scott v. Sandford decision in 1857?

Back

African Americans were not considered citizens.

Answer explanation

The Dred Scott v. Sandford decision ruled that African Americans were not considered citizens, denying them the rights and privileges of citizenship. This landmark case further entrenched the institution of slavery in the United States.

Front

What political realignment occurred in the 1850s?

Back

The decline of the Whig Party and rise of the Republican Party

Answer explanation

In the 1850s, the Whig Party declined due to internal divisions over slavery, leading to the emergence of the Republican Party, which opposed the expansion of slavery. This marked a significant political realignment in the United States.

Front

What did the Fugitive Slave Act require?

Back

The return of escaped slaves

Answer explanation

The Fugitive Slave Act required the return of escaped slaves to their owners, making it mandatory for citizens to assist in their capture. This law intensified the conflict over slavery in the United States.

Front

What was the purpose of the Anaconda Plan?

Back

To blockade Southern ports and control the Mississippi River

Answer explanation

The Anaconda Plan aimed to blockade Southern ports and control the Mississippi River, effectively cutting off supplies and resources to the Confederacy, which was crucial for Union victory.

Front

Which amendment abolished slavery?

Back

13th Amendment

Answer explanation

The 13th Amendment, ratified in 1865, abolished slavery in the United States, making it the correct choice. The 14th and 15th Amendments address citizenship and voting rights, respectively, while the Reconstruction Acts were legislative measures.

Front

What was the purpose of the Freedmen’s Bureau?

Back

To provide assistance to freed slaves and poor whites

Answer explanation

The Freedmen’s Bureau was established to provide assistance to freed slaves and poor whites after the Civil War, helping them with education, healthcare, and employment, thus supporting their transition to freedom.