4. Why was there a civil war in the United States and what were its results?
This topic covers the US Civil War - a bloody struggle between the northern and southern states of America which lasted four years and introduced to the world the horrors of modern warfare. The topic examines the causes of this conflict, the reasons for Northern victory and the consequences of the war for the Union.
4.1 How far did slavery cause the Civil War?
This section examines the creation of the Union of America and the nature of the new constitution. It also examines the origins of slavery in the US and how this institution became a major dividing issue...
4.2 How was the war fought?
This page examines the strengths and weaknesses of the Union and the Confederacy at the start of the conflict, the role and impact of the different military and political leaders on each side and the...
4.3 Why was the North able to win the war?
A series of Northern victories on the battlefield in 1863, and the appointment of Ulysses Grant as military commander in 1864 saw the tide turn in the North's favour. This page examines the overall factors...
4.4 Did the war change anything?
Following the end of the Civil War, a period of what became known as 'Reconstruction' took place. During this period Congress tried to rebuild the Union. This meant reintegrating the 11 Southern States...