States is that of freedom: That, as our Republican fathers, when they had abolished slavery in all our national territory, ordained that "no persons should be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law," it becomes our duty, by legislation, whenever such legislation is necessary, to maintain this provision of the Constitution against all attempts to violate it; and we deny the authority of Congress, of a territorial legislature, or any individuals, to give legal existence to slavery in any territory of the United States.” Republican Party platform 1860

After analyzing the statements above, which answer best explains the reason the Republican Party formed in 1854?

a. promoting business interests in the Northeast.

b. stopping the western spread of slavery.

c. promoting the interests of industrial workers.

d. none of the above