It makes sense Edward. I'd venture to say it started changing with Jackson as prez. then Lincoln nailed the freedom coffin shut. When you look at the way the land was filling in all over the South, some may have felt it was starting to look like the North. Township lines blended into another township before you realize you've left the one you were in. For those with roots and family ties deep into open areas, it probably seemed like they were being caged. Some went west, but not all could do so.
Given all of the bits n pieces we see or read today, it's difficult to be positive but I'd think it's the real concern over loss of control in their own lives and business ventures that sent some over to the disunion line.

All of a sudden, I'm hearing that old song, (was it the Smothers Brothers or Kingston Trio?) If Your Mommy Is A Commie Then You've Gotta Turn Her In". (John Burch Society song). Anyway, that's how we can perceive these new laws coming down the pike at lighting speed and it's probably like the Southern end of the country felt. They had no say. They had no vested interest in the new prez. He wasn't even on the ballot.

Pam