The Northern states had a diverse, industrial economy focused on manufacturing, trade, and agriculture, while the Southern states relied heavily on agriculture, particularly cash crops like cotton, using slave labor.
Similarities:
- Both regions engaged in agriculture.
- Both participated in trade and commerce.
Differences:
- North: Industrialization and immigration.
- South: Agrarian economy and slavery.
Factors for Differences:
- Geographic resources (North: coal, iron; South: fertile land).
- Cultural values (North: innovation; South: tradition of farming).