riddle - separate with a riddle, as grain from chaff screen sift, sieve, strain - separate by passing through a sieve or other straining device to separate out coarser elements; sift the flour
Causes of the Civil War: Slavery and Control of the Government. Throughout the first half of the 19th century, Southern politicians sought to defend slavery by retaining control of the federal government.
Causes of the Civil War: Secession Begins. In response to Lincoln's victory, South Carolina opened a convention to discuss seceding from the Union. On December 24, 1860, it adopted a declaration of secession and left the Union.