Question

What is the connection among sectionalism, slavery, and states’ rights as causes of the civil war? How did the Southern response to the 1860 election results demonstrate this connection? Explain in 4 sentences

Answer 1

Sectionalism, slavery, and states' rights were intertwined causes of the Civil War. Sectionalism, or the loyalty and allegiance to one's own region, led to deep divides between the Northern and Southern states over economic, social, and political issues. Slavery was at the heart of these divisions, as the Southern states relied heavily on the institution for their economy, while the Northern states increasingly viewed it as morally wrong. States' rights, specifically the right to maintain and expand the institution of slavery, became a rallying cry for the Southern states as they felt their way of life was under threat. The Southern response to the 1860 election results, where Abraham Lincoln, an anti-slavery candidate, won the presidency, demonstrated this connection as several states decided to secede from the Union, arguing for their right to protect the institution of slavery.