* Industrialization: The North's economy was increasingly industrialized, with a focus on manufacturing and trade. This type of economy did not rely heavily on the labor-intensive agriculture that was common in the South, which was heavily dependent on slave labor.
* Labor supply: Northern states had a larger and more diverse labor force than the South. This included immigrants from Europe, as well as free African Americans, who were able to find work in factories, mills, and other industries.
2. Political and Social Factors
* Abolitionist movement: The North was home to a strong abolitionist movement, which opposed slavery on moral grounds. This movement was supported by many religious groups, as well as by politicians and other influential figures.
* Democratic ideals: The principles of democracy and individual rights were more deeply ingrained in Northern society. Many Northerners believed that slavery violated these principles and was therefore wrong.
3. Regional Competition
* Competition with Southern states: The North and the South were competing for economic and political power. Northern states saw slavery as a threat to their own economic growth and political influence.
* Desire to limit the power of the Southern planter class: The Northern elite feared the growing power and influence of the Southern planter class, who were seen as a threat to their own economic and political interests.