Explain the factors that contributed to the victory of the North in the American Civil War.
The Union's military advantage, combined with a lack of support for the Confederacy among its own people and from abroad, led to the Confederate defeat in the American Civil War. The following are some key factors:

1. Military superiority: The Union had a larger army than the South, which was made up primarily of poorly trained volunteers who were ill-equipped for battle. Additionally, the Union navy controlled the seas, making it difficult for the South to import supplies or transport troops across the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Support within the South: While many Southerners supported slavery and secession, there also existed significant opposition to the war among those who believed it would be fought over principles rather than resources. This sentiment helped delay recruitment efforts and weaken the morale of soldiers on both sides.
3. External pressure: Britain and France recognized the Confederacy as an independent nation after the outbreak of hostilities, leading to economic sanctions against the United States. These sanctions further weakened the South by cutting off vital trade routes and disrupting international markets.
4. Strategic mistakes: The South made several strategic errors during the course of the conflict, including underestimating the strength of the Northern forces and failing to take into account the impact of modern warfare on civilian populations.