American History Hit What Caused the Civil War? | Slavery
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Sep 4, 2025 In this discussion, historian Chandra Manning from Georgetown University dives deep into the roots of the Civil War, shedding light on the institution of slavery. She reveals how the brutal economics of slavery fueled national divisions, while also exploring the struggles of free Black communities. Manning highlights the crucial role of religion in shaping contrasting Northern and Southern views on slavery and examines Confederate soldiers' insights into their motivations. This rich exploration uncovers the multifaceted causes that ultimately ignited the conflict.
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Slavery As The Central Cause
- Slavery was the central, towering issue that motivated soldiers on both sides as the Civil War began.
- Three and a half million people enslaved in the South made slavery a national crisis with existential stakes.
Slavery Fueled The National Economy
- Slavery was the single greatest source of U.S. wealth and powered multiple industries beyond plantations.
- Enslaved labor fueled docks, ironworks and especially cotton, tying the national economy to slavery.
Material Hardship Measured Quantitatively
- Enslaved people faced chronically poor nutrition, high death rates, and shorter life expectancy.
- Average height and crude death rates show enslaved people endured worse health than any other demographic group.
