In December President Lincoln announces his "10 percent" Reconstruction Plan which allows states in rebellion to reenter the Union if 10% of its 1860 voters signs a loyalty oath and pledge to accept emancipation.

On March 6, the U.S. Supreme Court hands down the Dred Scott decision.

The Kansas-Nebraska Act, which repeals the Missouri Compromise of 1820, becomes law on May 30.

The Compromise of 1850 a series of five bills, is passed on September 9. The Compromise allows California to enter the Union as a free state, gives New Mexico Territory the option of allowing or outlawing slavery, and creates a new Fugitive Slave Law.