1820s-1865: Events Leading to and The Civil War

Image Source - The Emancipation Proclamation, January 1, 1863

Summary in Three

Origins of Division: Recognition of the multifaceted factors, including economic, social, and political issues with slavery at the forefront, is crucial for understanding the deep-seated divisions between the Northern and Southern states, providing essential context to the broader narrative of American history.
Evolving Warfare and National Identity: Examination of the Civil War events is vital for comprehending the transition from traditional to modern warfare, driven by technological advancements and industrialization. This transformation played a pivotal role in shaping a unified national identity as the Union sought to preserve itself and eliminate slavery.
Civil War as a Turning Point: The Civil War stands as a profound turning point, not only addressing the slavery question but also reshaping the nation politically and socially. The Union's victory fundamentally shifted the balance of power between the federal government and states, solidifying the concept of a united nation, abolishing slavery, and setting the stage for Reconstruction and the transformative period in American society.

1820s-1865:
Events Leading to and The Civil War

Skill Focus
Cause and Effect

Compelling Question
Was the Civil War necessary to end slavery?

Essential Lessons
1820s-1865: The Civil War

Essential Lessons will help you with specific information about the Events Leading to the Civil War.
We are engaging in this complex thinking of connecting different topics to show our deeper understandings.

Checklist (4 Lessons)
Anticipatory Guide (2 Parts - Before/After)
Overview Videos: The Civil War
War Strategy & Battles (1861-1865)

Growing Our Vocabulary

Directions: These words need to be added to your personal glossary with definitions.
These words will be incorporated into your lessons so that you have the context around how these words and concepts are used!

secede/secession
sectionalism
assassination

Union (United States)
Confederate (CSA)
consecrated

war of attrition
blockade
emancipation

Add words that you came across throughout these Essential Lessons that you learned and add them to your glossary.

Overview Videos:
The Civil War

Multiracial Democracy:
Lincoln's Journey

Common Formative:
Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

John Brown:
Harper's Ferry (1859)

War Strategy & Battles
(1861-1865)

Additional Lessons

These Lessons can help you better understand different aspects of the concept we are studying.
These Lessons are NOT mandatory but would add to your learning about this time period.

These may be articles/videos/podcasts about our topics and there may or may not be specific instructions to do something with them other than read/watch/listen and see how it can add meaning to your understanding.

Chapter 3: "Break the Fetters of Slaves All Over the World"

The Rise of Cotton and Resistance to Enslavement