why are the members of the Creighton family so divided about the idea of secession from the Union?

The Family Bond is one of the dominant themes in the Across Five Aprils. Even though Jethro Creighton faces many challenges and misfortunes, such as the death of his children, he still manages to have a warm interaction with his family. The family dinners are filled with love and joy, and when the extended family joins, the dinners turn out to be more memorable and special. Members of the extended family such as Eb Carron and Shadrach are happily welcomed, and when tension builds up, Ellen Creighton tries to intervene. The family supports each other's decisions; for instance, they do not speak ill of Bill Creighton, and they support his decision to do the right thing even after he decides to fight for the south.