Sectionalism is a term that describes the growing divide between different regions of a country, often based on economic, social, and political differences. In the United States during the 19th century, sectionalism became particularly pronounced between the North and the South. The North was more industrialized and favored tariffs and a strong federal government, while the South relied on agriculture and supported states' rights. This divide contributed to tensions over issues like slavery, which was a key economic factor in the South but opposed in the North. As these regional differences intensified, they ultimately played a significant role in leading to the Civil War.