Question

In the first half of the 19th century, why did the U.S. Congress work to keep a balance between the number of slaveholding states and free states?

Answer 1

Because they didn't want war between slave holding and nonsalve holdimg states.

Answer 2

Answer:

If supporters of slavery or abolition had more representatives in the U.S. Congress, they would have their way on the issue.

View attached pic for proof