Originally Posted by
shikamaru
Incorrect.
Saving the union was a component of it, but so was slavery.
I'm not sure if you know how deeply slavery has affected the very nature and development of the United States. It had deep impact on representation, taxation, law, and more still with us today.
It seems to me you are seeking to reduce the importance of slavery and its effect on the United States.
The North was was made up of mercantalists as well as workers. Those workers did not want competition from slaves; therefore in light of this, it makes sense why the North would outlaw slavery. It is always about economics, assets, and the goodies.
It is simple why he wanted to save the union: tax revenues and outstanding obligations of the political corporation.