The Civil War battles impact on American history was profound, marking one of the bloodiest periods in U.S. history, with the Gettysburg battle significance in Civil War being particularly notable as more casualties occurred there in three days than in the entire Vietnam War.
- The Civil War began on April 12, 1861, at Fort Sumter, primarily to preserve the Union and address slavery
- Key battles including Bull Run, Antietam, Gettysburg, Vicksburg, and Appomattox Courthouse shaped the war's outcome
- The Union held significant advantages including larger population, industrial capacity, and naval superiority
- The Role of women and slaves in Civil War was crucial, with women serving as nurses and managing homes while over 200,000 Black soldiers fought for the Union
- The war concluded with Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse, followed tragically by Lincoln's assassination