The Gag Rule and Slavery Politics
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The "Gag rule" came about in 1836 when protesters argued in favor of the abolition of slavery in Washington D.C. To silence rioters and protesters the House of Representatives. It has been up held ever since until earlier this year when President John Quincy Adams considered the rule a violation of citizen's first amendment rights. After a motion by him, the House of Representatives repealed the rule.
Why was the gag rule ever enacted in the first place, is what many are wondering now. After recieving over 130,000 petitions, does the government have the right to take away any speaking privelages of the American people? It has people wondering where their say in slavery politics is?
In fact, many northern states now are hoping for the abolition of slavery in their respective states. Others tend to have no strong opinion on whether slavery stays around or not.
Many states above Virgina have already proclaimed themselves as "free states". However, this observation proves to be the exact opposite in most southern states.
This extreme difference of opinion is leaving many questions in the heads of civilians. What is to become of the United States if we cannot work out our differing opinions.
Abolition reformers are among the many looking for a peaceful resolution, however many signs seem to be pointing to a future war. Slave states just won't budge on their opinions, and vice-versa. Both sides are calling it a violation of their rights to even put the issue up for discussion.
In addition, states such as Ohio have been accused of taking in escaped slaves and hiding them for protection, much to the anger of southern slave owners. The slave owners see it as a complete outrage and have accused Ohio residents of purposly stealing slaves for personal gain.
The question of can the north and south resolve their difficulties, remains.
- Jeanette Schwalm