Why did leaders of the confederacy think their nation was entitled to?

Leaders of the Confederacy believed their nation was entitled to independence based on principles of states' rights and self-determination. They argued that the U.S. Constitution allowed states to secede and govern themselves, particularly regarding the institution of slavery, which they viewed as essential to their economic and social systems. Additionally, they felt that their distinct cultural and regional identities justified their separation from the Union. Ultimately, they believed they were fighting for their way of life and the preservation of their liberties.