Multiple choice In the 1840s and 1850s, the views expressed by Calhoun most directly contributed to the United States acquisition of new territory in the West increased sectional divisions between North and the South the development of sharecropping and tenant farming in South rise of voluntary organizations to promote religious reform Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself B Correct answer Explanation John C. Calhoun was a prominent defender of slavery and states' rights. His arguments exacerbated the divide between the North and South, leading to increased sectional tension over the institution of slavery.