Question

Based on the information in the chart, why might Congress have been divided about declaring war on Britain?

(1 point)
Responses

Some representatives were not convinced that the rumors about the Native American attacks were true
Some representatives were not convinced that the rumors about the Native American attacks were true

Members of Congress did not believe the American military could compete with the British military.
Members of Congress did not believe the American military could compete with the British military.

Southern representatives were less concerned about British interference in American shipping.
Southern representatives were less concerned about British interference in American shipping.

The War Hawks had more supporters in the House of Representatives than in the Senate.
The War Hawks had more supporters in the House of Representatives than in the Senate.
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Answer 1

Congress might have been divided about declaring war on Britain due to several factors, including the differing regional interests and perspectives. One key reason for the division could be that **Southern representatives were less concerned about British interference in American shipping**. This indicates that regional priorities influenced lawmakers' stances on the war, as those in the South might have had different economic concerns compared to their Northern counterparts, who were likely more impacted by British naval actions affecting trade. Other factors, such as doubts about the military capabilities and the validity of the rumors regarding Native American attacks, may have also contributed to the division, but the regional differences provide a clear explanation for the divide in Congress.