Civil war battles

Definition

The major military engagements of the American Civil War (1861-1865) that determined the conflict's outcome. These battles ranged from early Confederate victories to the Union's eventual triumph, resulting in massive casualties and the preservation of the Union.

Examples

  • The Battle of Gettysburg (1863), a turning point that halted the Confederate invasion of the North
  • The Battle of Antietam (1862), the bloodiest single day in American history
  • The Siege of Vicksburg (1863), which gave the Union control of the Mississippi River
Key Fact

The Civil War caused approximately 620,000-750,000 military deaths, more than any other American war.

Related Terms

Causes of civil war Reconstruction Total war Manifest destiny

Study This Concept

Practice Civil War battles with free review games in these units:

AP US History Unit 5: 1844-1877: Civil War and Reconstruction