Title: “The Divide of Secession: A Comparison of Alexander Stephens and William Patton’s Views on the South’s Justification for Leaving the Union”

Compare the 1861 Cornerstone Speech by Alexander Stephens, Vice President of the Confederacy with the 1861 essay by abolitionist Rev. William Patton titled, The American Crisis; or, the True Issue, Slavery or Liberty? These writers represent opposing viewpoints regarding the secession of the Southern states from the Union. Where do they agree and disagree regarding the cause and justification for secession? What audience is Alexander Stephens addressing in his speech, what is the occasion and purpose, and why is it important to the South? What audience is William Patton addressing in his essay, what is the purpose, and why is it important to the North?