For Both the North and the South

For both the North and the South,

A) the goal of stopping raids on their merchant shipping was critical.
B) skilled diplomacy enabled them to achieve their key objectives.
C) Britain or France's diplomatic recognition of the Confederacy would have been a critical factor.
D) the intervention of Mexico or Canada on the side of their enemy would have spelled defeat.
E) it was important to adhere to the letter and spirit of international law.