Many Kansans will certainly remember the years 1854 to 1861. It was filled with bloodshed, rebellious actions, lynching, and more bloodshed. The groups responsible for this viciousness were the ignorant pro-slavery and the anti-slavery clashing in their differences. Within a few months, Kansas was invaded by raids and riots from left and right. Stephan Douglass pushed for The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 which allowed the territory of Kansas to decide whether it would be free territory or slave territory, a practice known as popular sovereignty. It was obvious this decision was not going to be fixed properly or peacefully. People from other states soon decided to invade in the discussions and cross over into Kansas Territory to try and fix the votes making Kansas pro-slavery. From the south came people called Border Ruffians who made this issue a lot more difficult than it should be. They began a lot of violence, such as the “Raid on Lawrence” in attempt to force the acceptance of slavery. Why do they feel the need to invade in issues that should not be their business? In May 1856, Ruffians crossed the border and looted and burned multiple buildings, this act kicked open the door to more violent acts. A few days later the anti-slavery supporters caused the Pottawatomie Creek Massacre. John Brown attacked a pro-slavery settlement, killing five of the men. This controversy and violence was so large and out of control that it was impossible for federal authorities to contain it.…