That was the idea of “statesmen”—like the many folks who worked very hard to avoid a Civil War in the 1820s, 1830s etc.
I have no problem imagining an alternate history with a peaceful parting of the ways—but hindsight is 20/20—cooler heads did not prevail.
One more thought—the only way this gets fixed is with an honest admission that the divide is great—an admission without name calling, finger pointing, moral posturing—just an admission of the simple fact.
Then real negotiations could begin.
Notice that _no-one_ in DC can even step up to the plate to begin to think about, much less talk about, the issue.