Was 1815-1860 a time of heightened anxiety in the US?

Answer 1

Between the years of 1814 and 1860, there were tensions within the US. There were disagreements concerning the war with Mexico as one example. The ongoing dispute regarding slavery divided public opinion between Northern and Southern states. The annexation of Texas, was cause of great concern between the US and Mexico. Most national elections resulted in debatable political results and policies depending on whom, for example became the US President. Situations such as the Missouri Compromise displayed how fragile the Union itself was. And, problems with Great Britain in the North West, had war implications.Immigrations from European nations caused tensions in places such as New York City, as the fear of new immigrants from Ireland, as one example, caused "job concerns" among Americans. And, immigrants that were Catholics, disturbed many intolerant Protestants.

Additionally, the US had to deal with Native American Tribes. It usually became a one sided deal as the Natives were fooled and when a conflict arose, it cost lives, mostly Tribal lives. The situation placed settlers in western areas of the US in difficult situations, and the same for Native Tribes who saw their lands shrinking with each passing year.