Study the background to the American Civil War, including North-South differences, slavery, westward expansion, free states, abolitionism, Missouri Compromise, John Brown, Lincoln, Jefferson Davis and civilian impacts.

Historical judgement: Part two: Conflict across America in AA America, 1840-1895: Expansion and consolidation (Paper 1 Section A: Period studies) provides the direct anchor for this learning objective. Students focus on Study the background to the American Civil War, including North-South differences, slavery, westward expansion, free states, abolitionism, Missouri Compromise, John Brown, Lincoln, Jefferson Davis and civilian impacts. The explanation should use the subtopic wording, the relevant period, named events or individuals where appropriate, and precise historical evidence. It should then separate cause from consequence, change from continuity, and significance from importance while keeping sources, interpretations, evidence and opinion distinct.