Scott vs. Sanford

Scott vs. Sanford

What historical precedents does Chief Justice Taney use to justify his decision about Dred Scott's rights of citizenship?

Chief Justice Taney was a strong supporter of slavery. Suring that time period, slavery was common and was considered as a normal process. Even though, Scott was a free slave, Taney said that he is not allowed to sue anyone as he was not the citizen of the United States of America.

Does Taney's decision seem motivated by an impartial application of the law, or personal bias? Would it surprise you to find out that Taney were a slave-owning Southerner?

The ...