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.