What was a common belief among supporters of secession?

Supporters of secession often believed in the concept of self-determination as a fundamental right. This belief stemmed from the idea that states had the authority to govern themselves and make decisions that were in their best interests, particularly in relation to issues such as slavery and economic autonomy. The notion of self-determination was pivotal during the period leading up to the Civil War, as many in the Southern states felt that they should have the right to choose their own political and economic systems without interference from the federal government. This belief was rooted in the principle that each state was essentially a sovereign entity that should have the freedom to separate from a Union they felt was no longer serving their interests.