Overview
Timelines
Overview and main events
Colonial Settlement and American Revolution
The New Nation and Early Expansion
Civil War and Reconstruction
Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny
Industrialization and the Progressive Era
World War II and the Post-War Era
Civil Rights and Social Movements
Presidential History and Notable Leaders
Chronicle
Articles
Civil War and Reconstruction
This timeline delves into the events leading up to, during, and following the American Civil War, including the Reconstruction era.
1857
Dred Scott Decision
The U.S. Supreme Court rules in the Dred Scott case, declaring that slaves are not citizens and have no right to sue in court, further polarizing the nation over slavery.
1860
Election of Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln is elected President, leading several Southern states to secede from the Union in anticipation of his anti-slavery policies.
April 12, 1861 – April 9, 1865
American Civil War
The Civil War is fought between the Union (the Northern states) and the Confederacy (the Southern states) over issues including slavery and states' rights.
July 1863
Battle of Gettysburg
A decisive Union victory in Pennsylvania that turns the tide of the war against the Confederacy.
1865
Emancipation Proclamation and End of the Civil War
The Emancipation Proclamation is issued, and the Civil War ends with the defeat of the Confederacy, leading to the abolition of slavery.
1865-1877
Reconstruction Era
The period following the Civil War during which the South is occupied by federal troops and attempts are made to establish civil governments and grant rights to freed slaves.
