Timeline: Civil War Timeline

Feb 4, 1861

Confederate States

The Confederate States of America is officially formed. The states broke away from the Union.

Apr 12, 1861

Start of the War

The first shots of the Civil War were fired by Confederate soldiers.

Jun 21, 1861

Bull Run

Battle at Bull Run takes place. This is one of the first battles.

Jun 25, 1862

Seven Days Battles

Seven Days Battles started on June 25th but ended on July 1st.

Sep 17, 1862

Batlle beside the Antietam

This was the bloodiest single day battle in American history. It was beside the Antietam creek.

Jan 1, 1863

Emancipation Proclamation

Licoln issued his Emancipation Proclaimation but it didn't free all of the slaves. It was only aimed at the rebellious states in the South. It didn't free the slaves right away and only freed Southern States.

Jul 1, 1863

Gettysburg Day 1

Confederate soldiers advance towards the Union soldiers at Gettysburg. Lee wanted to make the Northerners give up their high ground so they could have the advantage.

Jul 2, 1863

Gettysburg Day 2

Lee ordered troops to attack Cemetery Ridge. TheUnion lines hadn't changed any despite Southern efforts.

Jul 3, 1863

Gettysburg Day 3

Lee ordered an artillery barrage in the middle of the Union lines. Northerners succeeded on holding high ground and Lee gave up. The casualties were at about 30%.

Jul 3, 1863

Vicksburg

Confederate commander of Vicksburg asked Grant for terms of surrender. The Confederacy was cut in half by losses. The city of Vicksburg fell on July 4, 1863.

Jul 13, 1863

Riots

There were riots in New York City. They didn't end until July 16th.

Nov 19, 1863

Gettysburg Address

The first speaker was Edward Everett who spoke for nearly two hours. Then Abraham Lincoln delievered his famous speech. It was only two minutes long and changed America forever.