Question

short answer: why did popular sovereignty not work when applied? what is a specific example of its failure?

Explanation:

Popular sovereignty is the idea that the power of a state and its government are created and sustained by the consent of its people. It may not work when there are deep - seated social divisions, lack of education among the populace to make informed decisions, or when powerful interest groups manipulate the democratic process. For example, in the lead - up to the American Civil War, popular sovereignty was applied in the Kansas - Nebraska Act to decide on the issue of slavery in new territories. Pro - slavery and anti - slavery forces clashed violently, leading to "Bleeding Kansas" as each side tried to influence the outcome through fraud, intimidation, and violence, showing that popular sovereignty did not lead to a peaceful or just resolution in this case.

Answer:

Popular sovereignty may not work due to social divisions, lack of education, and interest - group manipulation. A specific example is the "Bleeding Kansas" episode related to the Kansas - Nebraska Act.