The "Confederate Cause" refers to the reasons and motivations behind the formation of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War (1861-1865). The primary aim was to preserve the institution of slavery, which was integral to the Southern economy and social structure. Many Southerners believed in states' rights, arguing that individual states should have the authority to govern themselves without federal interference. Supporters of the Confederate Cause also sought to maintain their way of life, which they felt was threatened by the policies of the Union government. They viewed the conflict as a struggle for independence, similar to the American Revolution, believing they were fighting for their rights and freedoms against what they perceived as Northern aggression.