Sectionalism is a strong devotion to the interests and culture of a particular region or section of a country, often leading to conflicts and divisions between different sections. It typically occurs when different regions have distinct economic, social, or political interests, which result in people identifying more strongly with their regional identity rather than a national identity. This can lead to tensions and rivalries between regions, and can be seen in issues such as states' rights, trade policies, and the balance of power between different regions within a country. Sectionalism played a significant role in the lead-up to the American Civil War, with the North and South having different economic systems and positions on slavery that led to deep divisions and ultimately a separation between the two regions.
