A secessionist movement is a political effort by a group or region to withdraw from a larger political entity, such as a country or state, to gain independence or autonomy. These movements often arise from cultural, ethnic, or economic differences, and they seek to establish a separate government or political system. Historically, notable examples of secessionist movements include the American Civil War, where the Southern states attempted to secede from the United States, and the Quebec sovereignty movement in Canada, which seeks greater independence for the Quebec province. Such movements can lead to significant political and social tensions.