At the outset, which of the following led most Southerners to think that the Civil War would be short?

A. Their naval superiority promised a quick end to the conflict.
B. They believed they would quickly overrun Washington, DC.
C. Demand for southern cotton would lead France and Britain to recognize the Confederacy.
D. They thought Lincoln had no intention of using military force to reunify the nation.



Answer :

Final answer:

Southerners believed the Civil War would be short due to advantageous defensive strategies, soldier skills, and underestimating the North.


Explanation:

Southerners thought the Civil War would be short primarily due to their unique advantages:

  1. They believed defending their territory and waiting out the North would lead to victory.
  2. Confederate soldiers' familiarity with firearms and horse riding gave them an edge.
  3. Leaders thought the North would not use full military force, underestimating their determination.

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