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HAMADI ABSHIRO
11/21/2025
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American Civil War Timeline
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Nov 21, 2025
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Timeline of the American Civil War: Key Events 1861-1865
HAMADI ABSHIRO
@hamadiabshiro_hvdv
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Early Civil War Timeline: 1861-1862
The Civil War began when Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, prompting President Lincoln to call for 75,000 volunteers. Within weeks, several Southern states seceded, including Virginia, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Tennessee, while Kentucky and Missouri declared neutrality.
The first major battle occurred on July 21, 1861, at Bull Run, giving both sides a harsh reality check about the war's potential length and brutality. By September, the Union had established a naval blockade of Confederate ports, a strategy that would slowly strangle the Southern economy.
1862 saw numerous significant battles that increased the war's scope and casualties. The Battle of Shiloh shocked Americans with over 23,000 casualties, while the Battle of Antietam on September 17 became the war's bloodiest single day. These mounting casualties led Lincoln to remove General McClellan from command of the Army of the Potomac in November.
Did you know? The Battle of Antietam was not only the bloodiest single day of the Civil War with approximately 23,000 casualties, but it also gave President Lincoln the political opportunity to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, transforming the war's purpose.
Turning Points: 1863
The year 1863 marked crucial turning points in the Civil War. On January 1, President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation took effect, officially freeing slaves in Confederate states and transforming the war's purpose from just preserving the Union to ending slavery.
A naval revolution occurred on February 17 when the USS Monitor battled the CSS Virginia at Hampton Roads, marking the world's first clash between ironclad warships. This battle revolutionized naval warfare globally, making wooden warships obsolete overnight.
The summer brought two decisive Union victories that changed the war's trajectory. The Battle of Gettysburg stopped Lee's invasion of the North and dealt a devastating blow to Confederate forces. Meanwhile, General Grant's victory at Vicksburg gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, effectively splitting the Confederacy.
Important connection: The Battle of Gettysburg is often paired with Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address, but note the timeline discrepancy - the battle occurred in July, while Lincoln delivered his famous speech on December 8, transforming the meaning of the war in just 272 words.
The War Intensifies: 1864
By 1864, the war had evolved into a brutal, modern conflict. The Overland Campaign began with the Battle of the Wilderness , where Union General Grant pursued a relentless strategy against Lee's forces despite heavy casualties. This approach continued through the bloody engagements at Spotsylvania Court House and Cold Harbor.
The longest siege in American history began on June 18 at Petersburg, Virginia, demonstrating how the war had shifted from traditional battlefield encounters to trench warfare and attrition. Meanwhile, the naval Battle of Mobile Bay in August further tightened the Union's grip on Confederate ports.
The political front proved equally critical when Lincoln decisively defeated Democrat George McClellan in the November presidential election. This victory ensured the Union would continue fighting until total victory rather than negotiate a peace that might preserve slavery.
Think about this: The 1864 election might have been the most important in American history - had Lincoln lost to McClellan, the war might have ended with a negotiated peace that allowed slavery to continue in some form. Your right to vote truly matters!
Victory and Aftermath: 1865
The final months of the Civil War brought dramatic changes to America. The Thirteenth Amendment passed Congress on January 31, constitutionally abolishing slavery throughout the United States, going beyond the Emancipation Proclamation's wartime measures.
The military conflict reached its conclusion when General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Courthouse on April 9. Though some Confederate forces continued fighting, by May 26, the last units had surrendered, effectively ending the bloodiest conflict in American history.
The transition from war to peace included important symbolic and practical steps toward reunification. Confederate President Jefferson Davis was captured in May, and by August, the last Confederate flags were removed from Washington, D.C. The formal adoption of the Thirteenth Amendment on December 6, 1865, officially ended slavery in America, fulfilling the promise made in the Emancipation Proclamation.
Connect to today: Juneteenth (June 19), when Texas finally abolished slavery, has become a federal holiday in modern America. This connection between Civil War events and contemporary celebrations shows how this historical period continues to shape American identity and culture.
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Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
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Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Timeline of the American Civil War: Key Events 1861-1865
HAMADI ABSHIRO
@hamadiabshiro_hvdv
The American Civil War (1861-1865) was the deadliest conflict in American history, pitting the Union against the Confederate states over issues of slavery, states' rights, and the future of the nation. This timeline highlights the major military battles, political decisions,... Show more
Early Civil War Timeline: 1861-1862
The Civil War began when Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, prompting President Lincoln to call for 75,000 volunteers. Within weeks, several Southern states seceded, including Virginia, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Tennessee, while Kentucky and Missouri declared neutrality.
The first major battle occurred on July 21, 1861, at Bull Run, giving both sides a harsh reality check about the war's potential length and brutality. By September, the Union had established a naval blockade of Confederate ports, a strategy that would slowly strangle the Southern economy.
1862 saw numerous significant battles that increased the war's scope and casualties. The Battle of Shiloh shocked Americans with over 23,000 casualties, while the Battle of Antietam on September 17 became the war's bloodiest single day. These mounting casualties led Lincoln to remove General McClellan from command of the Army of the Potomac in November.
Did you know? The Battle of Antietam was not only the bloodiest single day of the Civil War with approximately 23,000 casualties, but it also gave President Lincoln the political opportunity to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, transforming the war's purpose.
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Turning Points: 1863
The year 1863 marked crucial turning points in the Civil War. On January 1, President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation took effect, officially freeing slaves in Confederate states and transforming the war's purpose from just preserving the Union to ending slavery.
A naval revolution occurred on February 17 when the USS Monitor battled the CSS Virginia at Hampton Roads, marking the world's first clash between ironclad warships. This battle revolutionized naval warfare globally, making wooden warships obsolete overnight.
The summer brought two decisive Union victories that changed the war's trajectory. The Battle of Gettysburg stopped Lee's invasion of the North and dealt a devastating blow to Confederate forces. Meanwhile, General Grant's victory at Vicksburg gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, effectively splitting the Confederacy.
Important connection: The Battle of Gettysburg is often paired with Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address, but note the timeline discrepancy - the battle occurred in July, while Lincoln delivered his famous speech on December 8, transforming the meaning of the war in just 272 words.
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The War Intensifies: 1864
By 1864, the war had evolved into a brutal, modern conflict. The Overland Campaign began with the Battle of the Wilderness , where Union General Grant pursued a relentless strategy against Lee's forces despite heavy casualties. This approach continued through the bloody engagements at Spotsylvania Court House and Cold Harbor.
The longest siege in American history began on June 18 at Petersburg, Virginia, demonstrating how the war had shifted from traditional battlefield encounters to trench warfare and attrition. Meanwhile, the naval Battle of Mobile Bay in August further tightened the Union's grip on Confederate ports.
The political front proved equally critical when Lincoln decisively defeated Democrat George McClellan in the November presidential election. This victory ensured the Union would continue fighting until total victory rather than negotiate a peace that might preserve slavery.
Think about this: The 1864 election might have been the most important in American history - had Lincoln lost to McClellan, the war might have ended with a negotiated peace that allowed slavery to continue in some form. Your right to vote truly matters!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Improve your grades
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Victory and Aftermath: 1865
The final months of the Civil War brought dramatic changes to America. The Thirteenth Amendment passed Congress on January 31, constitutionally abolishing slavery throughout the United States, going beyond the Emancipation Proclamation's wartime measures.
The military conflict reached its conclusion when General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Courthouse on April 9. Though some Confederate forces continued fighting, by May 26, the last units had surrendered, effectively ending the bloodiest conflict in American history.
The transition from war to peace included important symbolic and practical steps toward reunification. Confederate President Jefferson Davis was captured in May, and by August, the last Confederate flags were removed from Washington, D.C. The formal adoption of the Thirteenth Amendment on December 6, 1865, officially ended slavery in America, fulfilling the promise made in the Emancipation Proclamation.
Connect to today: Juneteenth (June 19), when Texas finally abolished slavery, has become a federal holiday in modern America. This connection between Civil War events and contemporary celebrations shows how this historical period continues to shape American identity and culture.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user