2. Slavery: Slavery was the main issue that divided the North and the South. The North was mostly opposed to slavery, while the South was mostly in favor of it. Tennessee was a slave state, and many of its citizens were slave owners. This made it a target for Union forces, who wanted to free the slaves.
3. Railroads: Railroads were another important factor in the Civil War. They allowed troops and supplies to be moved quickly and easily, and they were essential for both the North and the South. Tennessee was home to several important railroad lines, making it a strategic location.
4. Politics: Politics also played a role in the Civil War. Tennessee was a swing state, meaning that it could go either way in elections. This made it a target for both the North and the South, who wanted to win its votes.
5. Geography: Tennessee's geography also contributed to the Civil War. The state is surrounded by mountains and rivers, which made it difficult for troops to move around. This made it a good place for both the North and the South to defend their positions.
As a result of these factors, Tennessee was a major battleground during the Civil War. Some of the most important battles of the war were fought in Tennessee, including the Battle of Shiloh, the Battle of Chickamauga, and the Battle of Chattanooga.