Final answer:
The North's advantages during the Civil War included a larger population, industrial capabilities, and a vast railroad network, while the South benefited from the ability to fight defensively, knowledge of the terrain, and civilian support. However, Southern disadvantages like the reliance on cotton exports, a Union blockade, and inflation due to over-printed currency, alongside limited industrial and transportation infrastructure, ultimately undercut its capacity for a sustained war effort.
Step-by-step explanation:
The advantages and disadvantages of the North and South during the American Civil War were significant and played a crucial role in the conflict's outcome. For the North, its larger population, greater industrial capabilities, and extensive railroad grid were key advantages. These factors allowed the Union to mobilize men and supplies efficiently, maintain high levels of production, and ensure abundant food supplies. In contrast, the South had the benefit of fighting a defensive war, familiarity with the terrain, and support from the civilian population. Despite its smaller population and industrial base, the South had skilled military leadership and soldiers experienced in firearms and horsemanship.
However, the Confederacy faced several significant disadvantages. The Southern economy, reliant on cotton exports which were hindered by the Union blockade, suffered greatly. This led to shortages in goods and inflation due to the printing of paper money. The lack of industrial resources and efficient transportation infrastructure compounded these issues. In the long term, the populations and resources of the South could not sustain prolongued warfare.