What did the Confederate states seek to protect through their justification for secession?

The Confederate states primarily sought to protect the "peculiar institution" of slavery through their justification for secession. The concept of secession was rooted in a strong belief that slavery was essential to their social and economic systems. The Southern economy heavily depended on slave labor for the cultivation of cash crops like cotton, which was a significant driver of wealth and prosperity in the region.

The justification for secession often included the argument that the federal government was infringing on their states' rights, particularly regarding the regulation and continuation of slavery. The Confederate leadership framed their desire to maintain slavery as critical to preserving their way of life, social order, and economic interests.

In contrast, while aspects like free trade, agricultural economy, and alliances were relevant in the broader context, they were largely secondary to the central issue of maintaining slavery. The focus on protecting slavery distinguished the Confederate cause and served as a rallying point for those who supported the secession from the Union.