(words in italics were added to the US Constition by the Confederates; text in brackets was removed): "WE, the People of the [United States] Confederated States, each State acting in its sovereign and independent character, in order to form a [more perfect Union] permanent Federal government, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility [provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare], and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the [United] Confederate States of America."

Read this excerpt from the Constitution of the Confederate States.

On which event or issue can historians gain insight from this excerpt?

A.
Northern religion
B.
Southern secession
C.
Southern slavery
D.
the Union cause