The Outbreak of the Civil War


US History The Civil War The Outbreak of the Civil War
Students learn how the Civil War began with the firing on Fort Sumter in the Charleston Harbor. Then they learn about the strengths and weaknesses of the North and South. Finally, they create a map showing the Union and Confederate states at the start of the Civil War.

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Overview

In this experience, students learn how the Civil War began with the firing on Fort Sumter in the Charleston Harbor. Then they learn about the strengths and weaknesses of the North and South. Finally, they create a map showing the Union and Confederate states at the start of the Civil War.

Objectives:
  • Identify how the Civil War began in 1861.
  • Describe the strengths and weaknesses of the North and South as the war began.​


four men playing baseball

The National Game. Three “Outs” and One “Run”
Cartoon depicting Abraham Lincoln winning the Presidential election of 1860


The election of Abraham Lincoln had caused seven of the southern states to secede from the Union and form the Confederate Union of States. For a while, the Union and the Confederacy coexisted as two governments. But, tensions throughout the country were growing and it wouldn’t be long before a war between the two governments would begin.

Objectives:

  • Identify how the Civil War began in 1861.
  • Describe the strengths and weaknesses of the North and the South as the war began.


Recall what you know about some of the issues that led to the start of the Civil War.

Post your answer

Discuss with students some of their responses. Students’ responses should include:

  • The election of Abraham Lincoln
  • The secession of seven southern states
  • The issue of slavery in the South and in the new territories
  • State’s rights vs. federal control over many issues, including slavery

Ask students: Which cause do you think was the main cause of the Civil War? Most historians would say the slavery was the major cause of the secession and outbreak of war.


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