What was one of the primary causes of the Civil War?

• A. Expansion of trade
• B. Slavery
• C. Prohibition of alcohol
• D. Immigration reform

Answer: (B)

One of the primary causes of the Civil War was slavery, which was a deeply divisive issue in the United States during the 19th century. The existence and expansion of slavery fueled tensions between the Northern states, where slavery was largely abolished and viewed as morally unacceptable, and the Southern states, where slavery was integral to the economy and social structure. Conflicts arose over whether new territories and states admitted to the Union should allow slavery. Events such as the Missouri Compromise, the publication of Uncle Tom's Cabin, and the Dred Scott decision heightened these tensions. The election of Abraham Lincoln, who was opposed to the expansion of slavery, led Southern states to secede from the Union, ultimately resulting in the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861. Understanding slavery as a central factor helps illustrate the profound divisions in American society at the time and the subsequent war that sought to resolve those issues.