What Caused Civil War?

The Civil War had several causes – sectionalism, the
extension of slavery into new territories, and states’ rights. The 1800's saw a growth
in regional differences among Americans. The North, South, and West had developed their
own unique economy and culture. It was ideal of self-preservation of their way of life
that ultimately led to the conflict.

The Nullification
crisis grew from several states desire to strengthen the federal government. It was
argued that states should have a right to reject of nullify a federal law if it
disagreed with that law. The idea arose regarding the tariff issues of 1828 which
increased duties on raw materials while lowering the tariff on manufactured textiles.
This was very displeasing to the South who thought the tariffs were too high which would
cause European nations to retaliate against importation of U.S. crops.

Slavery divided the nation as the prospect of slavery in
the new territories threatened balance between slave and free states. All the
compromises failed. The Confederate States of America was established when Lincoln was
elected out of fear as President he would outlaw slavery.