To be sure but even so, it's my recollection when American history was taught in government schools, the "lesson" was that the north was compelled to chasten the South because of the South's adherence to slavery. Total bunk of course but to this day I'm sure similar rationales are taught.
Item(that few are aware of): The South had agreed with France to abolish slavery if the French would join them in their battle to shake the chains of the the northern beast. I think it's a safe bet the north was aware of this arrangement.
“The South had agreed with France to abolish slavery if the French would join them in their battle to shake the chains of the the northern beast.”
Yes. The development of rail lines and industrialization following the war clearly showed that this was about control of the country’s future. Lincoln freed the slaves because he needed bodies. He also marched people fleeing the Irish potato famine right from the ships and into the war—right there on the dock.
It’s actually interesting that the gentrification and latisfundia/plantation effect has come back around full force. Everyone who works is a wage slave. Fewer people live in absurd luxury and wealth that would put the Old South to shame. Illiteracy and group think is prevalent.
Now, with almost no places to go stake out open territory or work it as a steward, like homesteading, what is left? This time, Americans are finding themselves in the concentration camp of the present effort to surround us on all sides by something that wants to both enslave our bodies and steal our souls.
Fundamentally remaking the United States, one life, one freedom and one loss of opportunity at a time...is happiness?
Yup, that's what they taught us too.