The causes of the civil war

The causes of the war will be found at the base of our politics, in the fundamental law, the Constitution itself, the conflicting constructions which it invited, and in the institution of slavery which it recognized and was intended to protect. If asked what was the real issue involved in our conflict, the average American citizen will reply, "The Negro"; and it is fair to say that had there been no slavery there wouldn?t …

…significant self importance, and an offensive intolerance of the opposing section; or, if either section could be persuaded that it was "wholly and eternally wrong," it would inevitably destroy the self-respect and manhood of its people. Truth, justice, and patriotism unite in proclaiming that both sides fought and suffered for liberty as bequeathed by the Fathers--the one for liberty in the union of the States, the other for liberty in the independence of the States.