The Civil War: Essential Facts About America's Defining Conflict

From 1861 to 1865, the United States was engulfed in the Civil War, its first and most significant internal conflict. This monumental war arose from deep divisions over slavery and states' rights, leading to a fierce battle between the Northern Union states and the Southern Confederacy. The Civil War resulted in the abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment, drastically transforming the nation's legal and social fabric. Pivotal battles like Gettysburg and Antietam rank among the bloodiest in American history. Understanding the Civil War is key to grasping the roots of modern American society and its ongoing pursuit of civil rights.