Hey, ChatGPT, how does this end?

I posed a question to ChatGPT with very few parameters other than a year and a vague positive outcome for Southern secession. 

Let me be clear: ChatGPT and others are not true Artificial Intelligence. As a computer scientist succinctly explains, it is technically something called a Large Learning Model (LLM), basically a very sophisticated form of auto-complete powered by the ability to instantly reference an incomprehensibly large data source (the internet plus who knows what else). 

This is important to understand for the experiment here because while it seems like a creative process, it is in fact “simply” repackaging a unique response for you in natural sounding language that is based on nonfiction and fiction sources, Left to Right, pop-journalism to the academy. Pieces written in The Atlantic as well as Identity Dixie. 

While there are plenty of examples of LLMs like ChatGPT making up details out of whole cloth, they are initially believed (and this is the point) because they intuitively sound true because as noted above, they are based on data that, while biased, is in fact true enough compiled from a lot of sources. Like Wikipedia entries that may have a few manipulated details or that are nuanced to be politically correct, overall, they are more accurate than not. 

So, for your consideration and without any edits…

In the year 2024, a series of events and key figures led to the successful secession of several Southern states from the Federal government of the United States. The primary factors behind this historic breakaway were deep-seated political divisions, economic grievances, and the emergence of charismatic leaders who rallied their states to take a bold step toward independence.

Political Division: By 2024, political polarization in the United States had reached an all-time high. The divide between the more conservative-leaning Southern states and the more progressive Northern states had become increasingly apparent. Frustrated with what they perceived as an encroachment on their values and a disregard for state autonomy, Southern politicians began to seriously explore the idea of secession.

Economic Grievances: Economic disparities between the Northern and Southern states also played a crucial role. Southern states argued that their economies were burdened by federal policies that favored the industrialized North. Discontent over taxation, trade policies, and perceived favoritism further fueled the secessionist sentiment.

Charismatic Leaders: Several charismatic leaders emerged as the faces of the secessionist movement. Among them was Sarah Johnson, the governor of a Southern state, who delivered a compelling speech in which she called for the creation of a new Southern Confederation, emphasizing states’ rights and autonomy. Her impassioned leadership galvanized public support.

Catalytic Events: A series of catalytic events heightened tensions. The federal government’s attempt to impose stricter gun control measures in the Southern states ignited outrage, leading to mass protests and civil unrest. This incident served as the spark that accelerated the secessionist movement.

The Secession Referendum: In a historic move, several Southern states organized a referendum to decide their future. The referendum asked citizens whether they wanted to remain part of the United States or join a new Southern Confederation. The results were overwhelmingly in favor of secession, reflecting the deep-seated desire for independence.

Declaration of Independence: Following the referendum’s success, the Southern states jointly declared their independence from the United States. They cited a commitment to preserving their values, protecting their economies, and asserting their right to self-determination as the primary reasons for secession.

Negotiations and Recognition: The secession led to tense negotiations between the newly-formed Southern Confederation and the United States. The international community watched closely as various countries decided whether to recognize the legitimacy of the Southern Confederation as an independent nation.

The successful secession of the Southern states in 2024 marked a profound moment in American history. It highlighted the deep divisions within the nation and the growing importance of state autonomy in an era of increasing political polarization. The events of 2024 left a lasting impact on the United States, forever altering its political landscape and the way it approached issues of federalism and state rights.