What event is commonly associated with the rise of abolitionist sentiment in the North?

The publication of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe in 1852 plays a significant role in the rise of abolitionist sentiment in the North. This novel brought the harsh realities of slavery to the forefront of American consciousness, portraying the moral struggles of enslaved individuals and the brutalities of the system. Stowe's detailed narrative and emotional appeal helped ignite a widespread anti-slavery sentiment among readers, particularly in the Northern states, where many began to see slavery not just as a political issue, but as a profound moral wrong.

The novel's impact was profound, as it influenced public opinion and motivated many to become more active in the abolitionist movement. It is often credited with galvanizing opposition to slavery and is recognized as a powerful cultural artifact that fueled the debate leading up to the Civil War.

Other events, such as Lincoln's election, can be significant in their own right. However, they do not directly reflect the grassroots rise of abolitionist sentiment in the same way that "Uncle Tom's Cabin" does. Similarly, while the establishment of the Fugitive Slave Act and the Dred Scott ruling are critical in the context of slavery and legal battles regarding the rights of enslaved people, they often served to ent