The trouble with the Missouri compromise is that it is negative: the strategy depends on Mr Bush continuing to flounder.

ECONOMIST: John Kerry's running-mate

Taney, writing for the majority, voided the Missouri Compromise by arguing that Congress could not prohibit slavery in the territories.

NEWYORKER: Benched

From the Alien and Sedition Acts and the Missouri Compromise to the election of Abraham Lincoln, every development is given careful study.

ECONOMIST: American democracy