Southern Unionism refers to the political and social movement in the Southern United States during the American Civil War that opposed secession from the Union. Many individuals and groups in the South remained loyal to the federal government, advocating for the preservation of the Union and opposing the Confederacy's efforts to break away. This movement was characterized by a diverse range of supporters, including Unionists, abolitionists, and those who believed in a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Southern Unionists often faced persecution and violence from Confederate sympathizers, highlighting the deep divisions within Southern society during this tumultuous period.