Question

Why did southerners feel the federal government was not protecting their interests?

Answer 1

During the period of tension between Northern and Southern states, the Southern states didn't feel like the Federal Government was protecting their interests because they were in favor of slavery, and the Federal Government was going on a different direction.

The Federal Government didn't enforce some laws that would protect their right over the slaves, and that caused tension.

Answer 2

The federal government did not enforce the Fugitive Slave Law of 1793