What were the main causes of the American Civil War?

The main causes of the American Civil War were centered around the issues of slavery, states' rights, and economic disputes. Slavery was a deeply divisive institution in the United States, with the Southern states relying heavily on slave labor for their agricultural economy, while many in the Northern states opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories and states. This disagreement over the moral, economic, and social implications of slavery created significant tension between the North and South.

States' rights also played a crucial role, as Southern states believed they had the authority to govern themselves and make decisions independent of federal oversight, particularly concerning laws related to slavery. This belief in states' rights often led to conflict over federal authority and the enforcement of laws that Northern states did not agree with.

Economic disputes further exacerbated the situation, as the North and South had developed into two distinct regions with different economic interests. The North was industrialized and favored tariffs and policies that would protect its manufacturing interests, while the South, predominantly agrarian, opposed these policies that they believed harmed their economy.

In summary, the combination of the contentious issues surrounding slavery, the debate over states' rights, and the distinct economic differences between the North and South collectively fueled the outbreak of the Civil War.