This presentation will examine one of the most controversial decisions in the history of the US Supreme Court.  In addition to discussing the life of Dred Scott and the course of his lawsuit, we will examine the constitution and history of American law as they relate to slavery.  We'll also look at the conditions that led to and fed the decision and we'll look at the politicians, judges and lawyers involved.  Finally, we'll discuss the impact of the decision on its own time and on the Civil War and its implications today.

Art Straub is a Harrisburg consultant who has made a serious hobby of the study of the Civil War and the legal, social and political conditions surrounding it.  He earned his Bachelor's Degree from Duquesne University.