Sectionalism, slavery, and states' rights were interconnected causes of the Civil War. Sectionalism created deep divides between the North and South over economic and social issues, with slavery at the core of Southern identity. The South viewed states' rights as a means to defend their ability to maintain slavery and their way of life.
After the 1860 election of Abraham Lincoln, who opposed the expansion of slavery, Southern states felt threatened and believed their rights were being undermined. This led to secession, as they sought to protect their interests and uphold the institution of slavery, highlighting the direct link between these issues as catalysts for war.
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