Assessing Sectionalism in 19th Century America

In the 19th century, the United States underwent significant transformations that altered the nation’s social, political, and economic fabric. Among these changes were the rise of the market economy, the expansion of democratic ideals, and the increasing tensions surrounding slavery and regional differences.

Using the documents provided and your knowledge of the period, assess the extent to which the transformations of the 19th century contributed to the development of sectionalism in the United States. In your response, analyze the documents and incorporate relevant outside evidence to support your argument.