To what extent was the election of Abraham Lincoln the primary cause of South Carolina's secession? I will research the events leading up to the 1860 election and the South Carolina opinions leading up to the election. In my investigation, I will explore the similarities and differences in Abraham Lincoln's views and motivations regarding South Carolina during the time of the November 1860 election and December 1860 secession. My investigation will also include other factors as to why the South Carolina seceded. by the union. For my research, I will use reputable websites on the topic and primary documents including quotes, diaries, and South Carolina General Assembly resolutions written in 1850-1860. Part B: Summary of the Evidence Before Abraham Lincoln became president, the South Carolina General Assembly was debating a way to avoid being governed by the U.S. Legislature. The Declaration of Secession went into effect in South Carolina on December 24, 1860; ten months after Lincoln became president in November. A letter written by the General Assembly in 1859 in South Carolina reads as follows. “As it is the opinion of this General Assembly that the election of a black Republican to the Presidency of the United States will constitute a triumph and practical application of the principles subversive of the United States confederacy and incompatible with the peace and security of the Southern states. ” The General Assembly states that if Lincoln were to become president, the South would be endangered economically. The South was aware that Lincoln would abolish slavery and South Carolina wanted to go ahead and secede to escape freeing the slaves and destroying their economy. Lin...... middle of paper ......Elected President, invites other Southern States to do the same and prepares militarily and financially for such events (1859): n. page South Carolina Department of Archives and History. Network. May 18, 2011. .- - -. “General Assembly Resolutions.” Resolutions, in response to the election of President Lincoln, to hold a convention of the people, for various committees to report on preparations, and to communicate with other States. (1860): n. page South Carolina Department of History and Archives. Network. May 18, 2011. .Forte, George Templeton. "Diary of George T. Strong, 1860." American Civil War. Np, nd Web. May 18 2011. .