In 4 short sentences, what is the connection among sectionalism, slavery, and states’ rights as causes of the Civil War? How did the Southern response to the 1860 election results demonstrate this connection?
Sectionalism, slavery, and states' rights were interconnected causes of the Civil War. Sectionalism created deep divides between the Northern and Southern states, primarily due to their differing economic systems and social values. Slavery, which was predominantly practiced in the South, exacerbated these divisions and became a central issue driving the conflict. Southern states' rights advocates argued that they should have the autonomy to regulate slavery as they saw fit, leading to tensions with the federal government. The Southern response to the 1860 election, which saw Abraham Lincoln elected as a staunch opponent of expanding slavery, demonstrated this connection as several Southern states seceded from the Union, asserting their sovereign right to protect and preserve slavery.
