Originally Posted by TreeMutt
I have pondered this. I know sectional differences had simmered for a long time...it puzzles me why so many would oppose a separate country and die to prevent it.... giving your life to keep the nation united

I also believe that few Northern whites opposed slavery on moral grounds... the phrase in the Battle Hymn of the Republic "let us die to make men free" is enigmatic.


It was all about the Mississippi River and New Orleans. Follow the money.