Assessing the Causes of Sectional Tensions Leading to the Civil War

An essential aspect of understanding American history is examining the causative factors behind significant events. In the context of the United States from the mid-19th century, assess the causes of the rise of sectional tensions leading up to the Civil War (1840-1861). In your response, you should connect specific events or trends to broader economic, social, and political factors. Additionally, consider how these causes interacted with one another to create a climate conducive to conflict.