Southern Democrats appealed to nonslaveholders in the South by ___________________.

A) advocating the passage of protective tariffs
B) supporting a federal land-grant program in the territories
C) playing on their racial fears
D) arguing that any hardworking person could acquire slaves

Southern Democrats

A political faction that represented the interests of the southern states in the United States, historically advocating for states' rights and the extension of slavery.

Nonslaveholders

Individuals, particularly in pre-Civil War America, who did not own slaves, including those in the North and South who opposed or could not afford slavery.

Racial Fears

Anxiety or apprehension experienced by individuals or communities, often rooted in racial differences, stereotypes, or historical conflicts.