The outbreak of the Mexican -- American War threatened to spread slavery , causing Keyes to become an abolitionist .
Dissatisfied with farm life as a child , Elisha attended several terms at Beloit Seminary , where he formed his political beliefs .
The outbreak of the Mexican -- American War threatened to spread slavery , causing Elisha to become an abolitionist .
Dissatisfied with farm life as a child , Elisha attended several terms at Beloit Seminary , where he formed his political beliefs .