The American Civil War

April 12, 1861 - May 26, 1865

The U.S. Civil War was the bloodiest war ever fought on American soil. Three million men fought--sometimes brother against brother - and 600,000 died. What issues were so important to each side that they would engage in a war such as this? Why do we still study the Civil War today? Is there evidence of the issues raised by the Civil War present today?

Affective Influences

• Students will empathize with the various factions involved in the civil war and understand their points of view.
• Students will experience, through interviews, the emotions people still have today when discussing the Civil War and its impact.

Behavioral Activities

• Students will use primary and secondary sources to determine several causes of the civil war.
• Students will compare and constrast the various viewpoints of citizens involved in the civil war
• Students will interprete primary sources from historical periods.

Cognitive Changes

• Students will understand the impact of the Civil War on American life today.
• Students will understand the importance of uncovering different perspectives in historical accounts.
• Students will have an understanding of how the legacy of the Civil War still impacts our government and society today.