Reasons The North Went to War

The video explores the complex reasons behind the North's involvement in the Civil War, initially sparked by Abraham Lincoln's election in 1860. While many believe the North fought to abolish slavery, it wasn't until 1863 that slavery became a central issue with the Emancipation Proclamation. Initially, many Northerners fought to preserve the Union and believed in a strong federal government. Some historians suggest moral motives, while others point to economic interests in the South's resources. Misconceptions about these motives persist today.

What event is marked as the beginning of the Civil War?

• The secession of South Carolina

• The attack on Fort Sumter

• The election of Abraham Lincoln

• The signing of the Emancipation Proclamation

When did the North begin to focus on abolishing slavery?

• During the Battle of Gettysburg

• Following the election of Abraham Lincoln

• After the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863

• At the start of the Civil War

What was a primary reason many Northerners fought in the Civil War?

• To establish a monarchy

• To gain control of Southern resources

• To preserve the Union

• To expand the United States territory

What did the Emancipation Proclamation achieve?

• It ended the Civil War

• It freed slaves in the Union states

• It granted freedom to slaves in the Confederate states

• It abolished slavery throughout the United States

What is one reason some historians believe the North had ulterior motives in the Civil War?

• To establish a new government

• To gain control of Southern resources

• To form alliances with European nations

• To promote industrialization in the South