Why did Lincoln's election prompt the secession of the southern states?

Answer 1

Lincoln's election prompted secession of the Southern slave holding states because the southern slave-owning class viewed the election of an anti-slavery administration as a mortal threat. Though not an abolitionist, Lincoln was an opponent of slavery and determined to use all means at his disposal to stop its spread.

Answer 2

South Carolina had been on the edge of secession for several decades. Among others, John Brown's raid on the federal arsenal and the Dred Scott decision were key reasons for rising tensions. The election of 1860 caused a lot of trouble as the National Democratic Party split, and the Southern Democratic Party and the Northern Democratic Party nominated different candidates. Thus the Democratic majority was lost, and the Republican candidate, Abraham Lincoln, won the election without popular support. The southern states, especially South Carolina, feared that Lincoln's first presidential act would be to outlaw slavery. This fear finally pushed the state over the edge and resulted in secession.

Answer 3

South Carolina had made themselves the champions of States Rights during the Jackson presidency years. In December of 1860, they seceded from the Union and became their "own nation" in a manner of speaking. The election of Abraham Lincoln was the reason for their departure.

Answer 4

Because the new Republican Party was seen as being hostile to Southern interests.