Final answer:
The primary cause of the Civil War was slavery, particularly its role in the Southern economy and the North's opposition to its expansion. Other factors included economic differences, political ideologies, and disagreements on state vs. federal powers. The war led to the end of slavery and a stronger federal government.
Step-by-step explanation:
Main Cause of the Civil War:
The main cause for the Civil War was slavery, which was a pivotal and divisive issue leading to the conflict between the North and the South. Slavery was deeply integrated into the Southern economy, with slave labor being essential for the production of cash crops such as cotton, tobacco, and rice. This contrasted sharply with the North, where slavery was less economically vital. The election of Abraham Lincoln acted as a catalyst for the secession of the southern states, although the tensions between the two regions over slavery had been building for decades.
Factors Contributing to the Civil War:
In addition to slavery, several other factors contributed to the Civil War, including economic discrepancies, political ideologies, and social upheaval. The South sought local control over rules governing economics and cultural norms, while the North favored a centralized authority on certain issues, most notably the abolition of slavery. This philosophic divergence led to a broader conflict encompassing liberty, freedom, and American values. Ultimately, the war resulted in significant political, social, and economic changes, including the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and the strengthening of the federal government.