Where did the expression Going South originate?

Answer 1

1920s, American English, probably from mid-19cent. notion of disappearing south to Mexico or Texas to escape pursuit, consequence or responsibility, reinforced by Native American belief (attested in colonial writing mid-18c.) that the soul journeys south after death.

Answer 2

To 'go south', as to "vanish, abscond," is 1920s American English, it is the notion of disappearing south to Mexico or Texas to escape pursuit or responsibility, reinforced by Native American belief (attested in colonial writing mid-18c.) that the soul journeys south after death. That a situation is 'going south' means to err, fail or become untenable or impractical, or as descriptor, also mid-18c.