To determine the best explanation for the difference between Tennessee and Mississippi based on the number of battles indicated in the graph, we need to analyze the possible responses.
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Mississippi had more battles because it was on the coast: This is misleading as Mississippi does not have a significant coastal presence compared to other states.
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Mississippi had fewer battles because it was on the Mississippi River: While being on the Mississippi River could affect battle locations, it wouldn't straightforwardly explain fewer battles in a direct comparison with Tennessee.
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Tennessee had many more battles because it was closer to Union territory: This is a strong possibility. Tennessee's geographic location made it a key battleground closer to the divides between the Union and Confederate territories.
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Tennessee had many more battles because it remained part of the Union: This is incorrect, as Tennessee was actually a Confederate state during most of the Civil War.
Based on the above analysis, the best explanation would likely be:
Tennessee had many more battles because it was closer to Union territory.