States' rights: The south believed that states should have the right to make their own laws, regardless of what the federal government said. This included the right to maintain slavery, even though it was illegal in the north. The north, on the other hand, believed that the federal government should have supreme power and that states should not be able to nullify federal laws.
Slavery: Slavery was the most divisive issue between the north and south. The south's economy was based on agriculture, and slaves were essential to working the large plantations. The north, on the other hand, had a more diversified economy and was increasingly opposed to slavery. The abolitionist movement, which sought to end slavery, gained popularity in the north in the years leading up to the civil war.
Economic priorities: The north and south also had different economic priorities. The north was focused on industrialization, while the south was more focused on agriculture. The north wanted to build factories and railroads, while the south wanted to protect its agricultural interests. These differences led to conflict over tariffs and other economic policies.
In addition to these three major issues, there were also cultural differences between the north and south. The south had a more aristocratic society, while the north was more egalitarian. The south also had a stronger sense of community, while the north was more individualistic. These differences contributed to the growing tension between the two regions and eventually led to civil war.