The views on John Brown in 1859, expressed in the docments, extended widespread controversy on slavery and its expansion leading to the preservation of the union in the North and the secession of the South up to and during the Civil War (1863). Pam, do you take an opposing position to Tyler's statement then?

Due to John Brown's decision of raiding Harper's Ferry, the divided North's relationship with the South changed from 1859 to 1863, where the North fought for Brown's radical belief on the immediate abolishment of slavery. (Tyler) Tyler, do you mean that the north moved closer to Brown's radical abolitionism? Your job would be to justify that in the documents.

The reactions to John Brown's raid at Harper's Ferry, including complete condemnation from Southern advocates of slavery, criticism of his violent methods but support in principle from moderates in the North, and adoration from radical opponents of slavery in New England show a clear example of the increasing tension over the issue of slavery between the North and South. (Greg) Greg, this is a bit wordy, don't you think? Why don't you try to collapse it. You also say, '...make a picture that helps define the roles in the widening divide...' which is a bit vague. Just mention that the views on Brown's raid redefined the roles of the north and the south by blah and blah. Sorted. (Greg)

The reaction from the north and south to John Brown's Attack on Harper's ferry, from support to rage, showed the variety of opinions towards slavery, opinions that would eventually merge to form only two, for and against, opinions personified by the two sides of the Civil War.
James