When I was young in my 7th grade history class I learned that the north fought for the freeing of slaves while the south fought for states rights. I learned rather quickly that the south was fighting for the ability to own human beings and it had very little to do with states rights. Yet, I doubt that the Union soldiers would gather on mass in the most bloody war in American history to stick out their neck for what was often a class that was seen equal to cattle. Is it known what was the real reason most fought for the Union army?
I have no background in any of this. If I am totally off the mark please correct me. Thank you.