5. Why did southern states secede?

Question

A: They believed they could be more economically prosperous without the north
B: They believed the union no longer represented their interests
C: The Supreme Court decided they were legally able to do so
D: They wanted to re-align themselves with England

Answer 1

The most accurate answer to why southern states seceded from the Union is:

B: They believed the union no longer represented their interests.

Southern states seceded primarily due to issues surrounding states' rights, the institution of slavery, and political power. They felt that the federal government and the growing power of the Northern states were infringing upon their rights and interests, particularly concerning slavery and economic regulations. While the other options may contain some elements related to the context of the time, option B best captures the primary motivation behind secession.