Civil Rights

Explore the constitutional and societal impact of Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857). Uncover how this controversial decision shaped antebellum politics, influenced public opinion, and fueled tensions leading to the Civil War.

As the Court's first African American justice, his jurisprudence was marked by a profound commitment to justice, equality, and the rights of the underserved.

From the early 19th century to the Civil War era, a series of landmark cases highlighted the nation’s struggle with slavery and its legal ramifications. This article revisits some of these notable cases, examining the holdings and the contrasting opinions that echoed within the courtroom walls.