The Civil War: Important Events

South Carolina Secedes

Dec 20, 1860

It wasn't during the Civil War, but it did cause an uprising in the North. When SC left the Union, other Southern states soon followed, leading to the beginning of the War.

The First Battle of Fort Sumter

Apr 12, 1861

This was a Union base. Confederates attacked, and the Union eventually surrendered.

First Battle at Bull Run

Jul 21, 1861

This was the first major battle of the Civil War. It occurred near Manassas Virginia. The Union lost 3,000 men.

Battle of Antietam

Sep 17, 1862

One of the most bloodiest battles in American History. It was the first battle to take place on Northern territory. There were over 23,000 casualities.

Emancipation Proclamation

Jan 1, 1863

Abraham Lincoln announced that all slaves were free. This of course caused an uproar in the South. It didn't truly free the slaves, but it was progress

Vicksburg

Jul 1, 1863

(I can't find the actual date) Vicksburg surrenders to Grant, leaving all of the Mississippi River under Union control.

Battle at Gettysburg

Jul 1, 1863

So many men died at that battle. It confirmed the Unions future victory. It was considered the largest battle in the Western Hemisphere.

Gettysburg Address

Nov 19, 1863

Abraham Lincoln gave a speech in Gettysburg as a memorial to the soliders dying for this cause.

Lincoln is Re-elected

Nov 4, 1864

Union victories boosted Lincoln's popularity, allowing him to win this re-election.

Lee Surrenders

Apr 9, 1865

Lee refused to see his troops suffer anymore. He surrendered, letting the Union win.