- Slavery: The North was increasingly opposed to slavery, both morally and economically, while the South held tightly to its dependence on slave labor.
- Politics: The North had more political power due to its larger population, allowing it to influence national policies such as tariffs and expansion.
- Economy: The North was more industrialized and economically prosperous, while the South was agriculturally-dependent and vulnerable economically.
- Culture: The North was more cosmopolitan and religiously diverse compared to the more traditional and socially conservative South.