The American Civil War was a significant event in the country's history. It lasted from 1861 to 1865 and was fought between the northern states, known as the Union, and the southern states, known as the Confederacy. The primary cause of the war was the issue of slavery, as the southern states relied heavily on slave labor, while the northern states opposed it.

The war began with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter in South Carolina in April 1861. President Abraham Lincoln responded by calling for troops to defend the Union. The war continued for four years, with many battles fought on both sides. The Union ultimately emerged victorious, and slavery was abolished with the passing of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.

The American Civil War had a profound impact on the country, leading to significant social and political changes. It solidified the power of the federal government over the states, and it paved the way for the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Today, it remains a critical part of American history, and its legacy can still be felt in the country's culture and society.