2. Loss of Political Power: The South believed that the abolition of slavery would shift the political balance in the United States. Enslaved individuals were counted as three-fifths of a person in the apportionment of congressional representation, giving the South more political power than if they were considered full citizens. Outlawing slavery would reduce the South's representation in the federal government.
3. Social and Cultural Norms: Slavery was deeply ingrained in the social fabric and cultural norms of the South. Many whites in the South genuinely believed in the racial inferiority of Black individuals and saw slavery as a necessary and natural part of society. Outlawing slavery would challenge these beliefs and disrupt the established social order.
4. Fear of Social Unrest: The South feared that freeing millions of enslaved individuals without adequate preparation or integration into society would lead to widespread social unrest and violence. They worried about the potential for former slaves to seek retribution or compete with whites for jobs and resources.
5. Resistance to Northern Control: The South perceived the growing abolitionist movement in the North as an encroachment on their way of life and an attack on their states' rights. Outlawing slavery was seen as a victory for Northern ideals and a threat to Southern autonomy.
6. Preservation of White Supremacy: The South's fear of outlawing slavery was also rooted in their desire to maintain white supremacy. Many whites in the South were determined to preserve the racial hierarchy that placed whites above enslaved individuals and marginalized free Black individuals.