[Savage Beast]

I believe that at least part of the reason for secession, was that the election of Lincoln had many in the south believe that he was going to pass laws outlawing slavery in all states.

Their belief was well founded. That's exactly what he did.

[aynrandfreak]

Their belief was well founded. That's exactly what he did.

And it may have happened anyway, but Lincoln implied it may not have in his letter about saving the Union even if it meant freeing no slaves.