Which group of Northern Democrats opposed abolition and sympathized with the South during the Civil War?

The Copperheads were a faction of Northern Democrats during the Civil War who opposed the war and advocated for an immediate peace settlement with the Confederacy. This group was known for their vocal criticism of the Lincoln administration and their sympathy towards the South, often arguing that the war was unnecessary and should be brought to an end. They were seen as traitorous by their opponents and played a significant role in the political landscape of the Northern states during this tumultuous period.

Understanding the context of the Civil War is essential to grasp the significance of the Copperheads. Their platform was rooted in a desire to preserve the Union while resisting any radical approaches to the conflict, particularly abolition. In doing so, they highlighted the divisions within the Democratic Party and the complexities of Northern attitudes toward the South and the institution of slavery.