The Civil War: Causes and Conflict
Ever wonder what could tear a country apart? In 1861, the United States split when Southern states seceded to form the Confederate States of America, beginning the four-year Civil War that would reshape America forever.
At its core, the conflict centered on slavery. Southern states relied heavily on enslaved people to power their agricultural economy, while the more industrialized North had moved away from the practice. When Abraham Lincoln—who opposed slavery's expansion—won the presidency in 1860, Southern states viewed this as a threat to their way of life and broke away from the Union.
The war raged until 1865, ending with Union victory, the abolition of slavery, and the reunification of the country. This victory, however, was just the beginning of a new struggle. The end of slavery didn't immediately create equality or justice for freed African Americans.
Think About It: The Civil War wasn't just a military conflict—it was a battle over what kind of nation America would become. The questions raised during this period about rights, citizenship, and equality still echo in American society today.
