Question

the formation of the confederate states of america was sparked by

Answer 1

You could say the anti-slavery movement.

The South felt that slavery, on which much of its industry rested on, was in danger and several states seceded to form the Confederacy in order to preserve what many felt was a way of life.

Answer 2

It was actually the election. Electing Lincoln as president sparked the southern states to oppose the government and create their own.