What impact did "Uncle Tom's Cabin" have on the abolitionist movement?

"Uncle Tom's Cabin," written by Harriet Beecher Stowe and published in 1852, had a profound impact on the abolitionist movement by portraying slavery as brutal and immoral. The novel vividly depicted the harsh realities faced by enslaved people and humanized them through relatable characters and poignant storytelling. This emotional and moral appeal galvanized public sentiment against the institution of slavery, making it more difficult for individuals to justify or support slavery in their minds or in public discourse.

The book became a bestseller, reaching a wide audience across the United States and beyond, and it sparked intense discussions about slavery and human rights. Many readers were moved to join abolitionist causes or support initiatives aimed at ending slavery. The portrayal of enslaved individuals' suffering highlighted the inhumanity of slavery, thereby reinforcing the moral arguments of the abolitionist movement.

In the context of the other options, while "Uncle Tom's Cabin" did contribute to a decrease in support for slavery, its most significant effect lay in its moral portrayal of slavery rather than simply decreasing support. The claim that it encouraged the South to strengthen their slave laws represents a reaction in defense of the institution, which does not capture the book's primary influence on northern sentiments. Lastly, the assertion that it had