The Civil War Was One of The Most Difficult Times in American History
The Civil War Was One of The Most Difficult Times in American History
The Civil War Was One of The Most Difficult Times in American History
In 1860 and 1861, eleven southern states decided to secede (break away) from the United States and form their own
government. It was called the Confederate States of America. Richmond, Virginia was made their capital. Congress
declared war on April 14, 1861 for the purposes of preserving the Union. The first shots of the Civil War were fired
two days earlier at Fort Sumter, South Carolina.
The war that ensued was long and deadly. Over 500,000 soldiers were killed, by far, more than any other war in
American history. Both the north and the south won many major victories. Many battles proved inconclusive. The
northern side, however, had more people and supplies. The turning point in the war occurred between July 1-3 of
1863 at the Battle of Gettysburg. It was the only time the south waged a major battle on northern soil (not including
battles fought in border states). The Union army was victorious and drove the Confederates back to Virginia.
In 1864, the Confederate Army was further weakened. Union forces had cut the Confederacy in two separate parts by
taking over the Mississippi River and the port of New Orleans. Robert E. Lee's army was also under constant attack
from Union general Ulysses S. Grant throughout Virginia. Finally, after Union forces invaded the Confederate capital
of Richmond, the Confederate States of America were forced to surrender on April 9, 1865 at Appomattox
Courthouse, Virginia. The war was over and the Union was preserved.
1. About how long did the Civil War last?
A. 4 years
B. 4 months
C. 2 years
D. 6 months
2. Which of the following best describes why the Civil War happened?
A. Because anti-slavery people in the south wanted slavery abolished.
B. Because anti-slavery people in the south did not want the government to make decisions about slavery for
them.
C. Because pro-slavery people in the north wanted slavery abolished.
D. Because pro-slavery people in the south did not want the government to make decisions for them about
slavery.