CHRONOLOGY

1846

  • Wilmot Proviso is introduced.

1847

  • Wilmot Proviso is defeated in Senate.
  • “Popular sovereignty” compromise is offered.

1848

  • Free-Soil Party is founded.
  • Zachary Taylor is elected president.

1849

  • California gold rush.

1850

  • Taylor dies; Vice President Millard Fillmore becomes president.
  • Compromise of 1850 becomes law.