Cause And Effect Chart Of The Civil War
Introduction
The Civil War was a significant event in the history of the United States. It was a war between the Northern and Southern states that started on April 12, 1861, and ended on May 9, 1865. The war resulted in the deaths of more than 620,000 people, which is more than the number of deaths in all other wars fought by the United States combined. The cause and effect chart of the Civil War helps us understand the various factors that led to the war and the consequences that followed.
Cause of the Civil War
The primary cause of the Civil War was slavery. The Southern states depended on slaves to work on their farms, while the Northern states supported the abolition of slavery. The issue of slavery became more contentious when new states were added to the Union. The Southern states feared that the new states would be free states, which would upset the balance of power between the North and South.
Secession
In 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected as the President of the United States. The Southern states saw his election as a threat to their way of life and seceded from the Union. They formed the Confederate States of America, which was led by Jefferson Davis. This was a significant turning point in the Civil War, as it led to the formation of two opposing sides.
The War Begins
The Civil War began on April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces attacked Fort Sumter in South Carolina. This was the first battle of the Civil War, and it marked the beginning of a long and bloody conflict. The North and South were evenly matched in terms of military strength, and the war lasted for four long years.
Battles and Campaigns
The Civil War was fought on many fronts, with numerous battles and campaigns taking place throughout the war. Some of the most significant battles include the Battle of Gettysburg, the Battle of Antietam, and the Battle of Shiloh. These battles were fought with great intensity, and the casualties were high on both sides.
Emancipation Proclamation
In 1863, President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. This was a historic document that declared that all slaves in the Confederate states were free. While this did not immediately end slavery, it was a significant step towards its abolition.
Gettysburg Address
In November 1863, President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. This was a powerful speech that emphasized the importance of democracy and the unity of the nation. The speech is considered one of the greatest speeches in American history.
Surrender at Appomattox
The Civil War ended on April 9, 1865, when General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia. This was a significant moment in American history, as it marked the end of a long and bloody conflict.
Reconstruction
After the Civil War, the United States entered a period of Reconstruction. This was a time when the country was rebuilt and reorganized. The issues of slavery and civil rights continued to be a major concern, and the country struggled to find a way to move forward.
Legacy of the Civil War
The Civil War had a profound impact on American history. It led to the abolition of slavery, the reunification of the country, and the strengthening of the federal government. However, it also resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and left deep scars on the nation.
Conclusion
The Civil War was a significant event in American history. The cause and effect chart of the Civil War helps us understand the various factors that led to the war and the consequences that followed. While the war was a tragic and bloody conflict, it also resulted in the abolition of slavery and the reunification of the country. The legacy of the Civil War continues to shape American society and politics today.