Dred Scott v. Sandford 1857
Background: Dred Scott, a slave, had lived with his master in the free state of Illinois and the free territory of Wisconsin before he moved back to Missouri, a slave state. When his master died, he appealed to the Supreme Court in the hopes of being granted his freedom.
Issue: Was Dred Scott a free man?
Ruling/Impact: Supreme Court Justice Taney, a staunch supporter of slavery, ruled that since Scott was not a citizen he had no right to sue for his freedom. Scott was denies his freedom and Taney ruled that blacks, free or otherwise, were not and could never become citizens. The Missouri Compromise of 1820 was declared unconstitutional, permitting slavery in all of the countries territories.
Issue: Was Dred Scott a free man?
Ruling/Impact: Supreme Court Justice Taney, a staunch supporter of slavery, ruled that since Scott was not a citizen he had no right to sue for his freedom. Scott was denies his freedom and Taney ruled that blacks, free or otherwise, were not and could never become citizens. The Missouri Compromise of 1820 was declared unconstitutional, permitting slavery in all of the countries territories.