Let’s look at the map and the legend to figure out how many free states there were in 1821.
First, check the legend:
- Blue = Free States
- Red = Slave States
- Pink = Free Territories
- Gray = Other countries or unorganized land
We are only counting
Free States — that means blue-colored areas labeled as “States” (not territories).
Now, let’s count the blue states on the map:
1. Maine
2. New Hampshire
3. Vermont
4. Massachusetts
5. Rhode Island
6. Connecticut
7. New York
8. Pennsylvania
9. New Jersey
10. Delaware? Wait — Delaware is red! So not free.
Wait — let’s double-check each state carefully.
Actually, looking again:
Blue states (free states) in 1821:
From northeast down:
- Maine (blue)
- New Hampshire (blue)
- Vermont (blue)
- Massachusetts (blue)
- Rhode Island (blue)
- Connecticut (blue)
- New York (blue)
- Pennsylvania (blue)
- New Jersey (blue)
That’s 9 so far.
What about Ohio? Ohio is blue → yes, free state → #10
Indiana? Blue → #11
Illinois? Blue → #12
Michigan Territory is blue but it says “Territory” — so not a state yet. Don’t count.
So total free states: 12
Check the timeline bar at bottom:
“Free States” row has numbers: 5 8 11 12... and under 1821 it shows 12.
Yes — matches!
Final Answer:
12
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of missouri compromise worksheet 8th grade.
