Final answer:
The root of secession can be attributed to the idea of state's rights, the fear of abolishing slavery, and the political landscape at the time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The root of secession can be attributed to several factors, including the idea of state's rights, the fear of abolishing slavery, and the political landscape at the time.
Many southern states believed in the concept of state rights, which emphasized the power and autonomy of individual states over the federal government. They felt that the federal government should not interfere with their ability to own and govern slaves.
Additionally, the fear of abolishing slavery played a significant role in secession. Southern leaders saw the possibility of a Republican president, such as Abraham Lincoln, as a threat to their way of life and the institution of slavery. This fear led them to believe that secession was necessary to protect their interests.