Why were westerners less supportive of slavery than easterners?

Westerners were often less supportive of slavery compared to easterners primarily due to economic and social factors. The western economy was more focused on small-scale farming and the development of new industries, which did not rely as heavily on slave labor. Additionally, the cultural and social dynamics in the West were influenced by a growing abolitionist sentiment and the ideals of freedom and equality. This contrasted with the entrenched plantation system in the East, which was heavily dependent on slavery for its economic viability.