In 1820, the Missouri Compromise balanced the United States by admitting Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, banning slavery north of 36°30′ in the Louisiana Territory. This Readers’ Theater packet immerses students in the heated Congressional debates, featuring Henry Clay’s skillful mediation, James Tallmadge’s bold stand against slavery, and Thomas Cobb’s fierce defense of southern rights. With primary sources like Jefferson’s haunting firebell in the night warning, the script