- The North had a more diverse economy. The Southern economy was heavily dependent on agriculture, particularly cotton, which was labor-intensive and required large numbers of slaves. In contrast, the Northern economy was more diversified, with a mix of agriculture, industry, and commerce.
- The North had more access to capital. Northern businessmen had more access to capital, which allowed them to invest in new technologies and businesses that did not require slave labor.
- The North had a larger labor force. The North had a larger population than the South, and a greater proportion of its population was free. This meant that there was a larger pool of available workers in the North, which reduced the need for slaves.
Social and political reasons:
- The North had a more diverse population. The North was home to a more diverse population, including immigrants from Europe and Africa, as well as free blacks. This diversity made it more difficult to maintain the institution of slavery, as there was less support for it among the general population.
- The North had a stronger tradition of democracy and egalitarianism. The North had a stronger tradition of democracy and egalitarianism than the South. This was reflected in the fact that Northern states were more likely to have universal suffrage and other democratic reforms.
- The North was more influenced by the abolitionist movement. The abolitionist movement was a social and political movement that sought to end slavery in the United States. The movement was more active in the North than in the South, and it played a significant role in shaping public opinion on the issue of slavery.