Was secession an act of treason or a political decision?

Secession can be viewed as both an act of treason and a political decision, depending on one's perspective. From the standpoint of the federal government, secession was considered treasonous since it involved the rejection of national authority and unity. Conversely, many Southern states viewed secession as a legitimate political decision rooted in their rights and autonomy, particularly in response to perceived threats to their way of life and interests. Ultimately, the interpretation of secession hinges on legal, historical, and ideological contexts.