Economic Differences: The Northern economy was largely industrial and manufacturing-based, while the Southern economy was primarily agrarian and agricultural. The North favored protective tariffs to support its industries, while the South opposed tariffs as they raised the cost of goods imported from Europe.
Political Power: The North was more populous than the South and thus held a majority in the House of Representatives. However, the South had more power in the Senate, where each state had an equal number of Senators regardless of population. This led to conflicts over the balance of power between the states.
Social and Cultural Differences: The North was more urban and diverse, while the South was more rural and homogeneous. The North had a more egalitarian society, while the South had a more hierarchical society based on class and race. These differences led to clashes over issues such as suffrage, education, and civil rights.
States' Rights vs. Federal Authority: The South advocated for states' rights and limited federal power, while the North favored a strong federal government that could regulate interstate commerce and enforce national laws. This disagreement led to debates over the scope of the federal government's authority.
Expansion and Western Territories: The North and South disagreed over the expansion of the United States into new territories and the admission of new states. The South feared that the admission of new free states would dilute its power in Congress and lead to the eventual abolition of slavery. The North, on the other hand, wanted to expand its territories and spread its political and economic influence.