Even before 1860 and the secession, why was the North pursuing anti-slavery policy? Why did the North care so much? Was it just a response to Southern bungling, self-fulfilling their own prophecy, and hand-forcing?
Was it
-Economics? (Industry + Ag seemed to work pretty well)
-Morality? (I doubt it)
-Eventual bloc voting power ?
Federal emphasis in Federalism over States’ Rights?
Sectionalism pissing contest?
I know it’s complex with a lot of ins and a lot of outs. I also cross posted a bit with r/HistoryTeachers and this is not giving the South a pass on the States’ Rights (to enslave, own, & exploit human beings) argument. I’d love a bit more perspective on the Northern perspective :
What was the North’s skin in the game ?
The differences between the more-enslaving and less-enslaving states develop over a timespan greater than the history of the United States as an independent nation, but I have an overview in an older post.. For the very immediate circumstances, this is of mine may also be helpful. I'm happy to go into more detail if you'd like, of course.