Question

how did Americans disagree over the role of federal and state governments before and during the the civil war?
Answer in 3 simple sentences.

Answer 1

Before and during the Civil War, Americans were deeply divided over the balance of power between federal and state governments, largely influenced by issues such as slavery and states' rights. Southern states argued for greater state autonomy, claiming the right to determine their own laws and practices, including the legality of slavery, while many in the North supported a stronger federal government to maintain national unity and enforce federal laws. These disagreements ultimately intensified conflicts, contributing to the Civil War as states sought to assert their rights against federal authority.