The argument that the Civil War began primarily as a southern fight to defend liberty and the right of self-government is unsatisfactory because:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The actual reason for secession and war was slavery, which southern leaders used as justification. While some pro-Confederate rhetoric did invoke language about defending liberty and self-government, these arguments were secondary to the defense of slavery as an institution. Additionally, neither the establishment of a monarchy nor an envisioned dictatorship were plans or actions taken by the Confederacy during the Civil War.

The Argument That the Civil War Began Primarily as a Southern