Many Northern workers feared that freed African Americans would compete with them for jobs, lowering wages and threatening their livelihoods.
Racial prejudice and discrimination
Racist attitudes were prevalent in Northern society as well, and many workers held negative stereotypes and prejudices towards African Americans. Fears of social and political equality further fueled opposition to abolition.
Political power and control
The Northern Democratic Party, which had a strong base among white working-class voters, often aligned with Southern slaveholders on economic and political issues. This alliance, known as the "Slave Power Conspiracy," aimed to protect the interests of both Northern Democrats and Southern planters and contributed to the resistance against abolition.
Lack of understanding and empathy
Many Northern workers had limited contact with African Americans and lacked a deep understanding of the injustices and hardships faced by enslaved individuals. This limited exposure contributed to a lack of empathy and support for the abolitionist cause among some segments of the Northern working class.
States' rights and limited federal power
Some Northern workers supported the idea of states' rights and believed that the federal government should not interfere in matters related to slavery, which they saw as a state issue. This position aligned with the interests of Southern states that resisted federal intervention in protecting the institution of slavery.