I don't know that any ONE thing was the reason for the Civil War. However, looking at the history of the US especially in the 1840s to 1860, slavery was definitely AN issue leading to the Civil War.

My ancestor, as he stated in his letters, fought to preserve the Union. His purpose was not, as he stated, to free the "Darkies".

I must admit, though, that I have seen letters/diaries of people who say they fought to free the slaves.

So, I agree. Slavery was not the reason for the Civil War. However, there is no way that anyone can histsorically justify the statement that slavery was not a reason the war was fought.

Just an opinion of one who is cursed with being able to see the validity (and often folly) of both sides of an issue.