"Lincoln was willing to do anything to keep the Republic from being split up, and that sentiment probably still prevails today."
I still disagree. I don't think Americans, in general, have that sense of nationalism anymore. I think if New Mexico became 70% Mexican immigrant, and voted to leave the Union, there would be much gnashing of teeth as we watched them go.
As I said, it would be stupid. The state would lose federal aid and protection, and would be run less efficiently than Mexico. But we aren't talking about geniuses here.
"I still disagree. I don't think Americans, in general, have that sense of nationalism anymore. "
Oops. I did miss your point.
You may be right. I am still hopeful, though, that it won't come down to something like that.