The American Civil War, fought from 1861 to 1865, remains the bloodiest conflict in American history. It resulted in an estimated 620,000 to 750,000 deaths
President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. This executive order declared that all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory were to be set free.
The Civil War witnessed significant technological advancements in warfare. It was the first major conflict to feature widespread use of railroads for troop transportation
Abraham Lincoln delivered one of the most famous speeches in American history, the Gettysburg Address, on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg
Women played crucial roles during the Civil War, not only as nurses caring for the wounded but also as spies, soldiers (disguised as men), and supporters on the home front.
The Civil War had significant international repercussions. European powers closely watched the conflict, with many hoping for a Confederate victory to weaken the United States.
Following the Civil War, the United States entered a period of Reconstruction aimed at rebuilding the South and integrating formerly enslaved people into society as free citizens.