Well that depends on whether you believe in the Principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence or not.
It's funny, but the motivation of the Northern government was that "All men are created equal...", but they completely walked all over that
"That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. "
Part.
Actually, who am I kidding? The motivation of the Northern government WAS NOT that "All men are created equal..." We know this because Lincoln said he would keep them enslaved if the Southern States would give up on Independence.
Obviously stopping independence was more important to the Union than abolishing slavery. Apparently there WAS NO MORAL motivation for the Northern side when it started. It was just all about stopping Independence for people who wanted it.
Surely you're not suggesting that the was Southern motivation?
It was just all about stopping Independence for people who wanted it.
Combatting rebellion is a natural response for any country, be it the U.S. or the U.K.