Subjects –
Slavery
Representative James Henry Hammond of South Carolina
February 01, 1836
Representative James Henry Hammond of South Carolina, delivered the first defense in Congress of the institution of slavery when he spoke to explain his motion that antislavery petitions “be not received,” by the House.
The Opening of the 34th Congress
December 03, 1855
On this date, Representatives badly divided over the slavery issue convened in the Old House Chamber (present-day Statuary Hall) to commence the 34th Congress (1855–1857).
The 13th Amendment
January 31, 1865
On this date, the House passed the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery in the United States.