Civil War Major Events Timeline

By matthew39641

  • Abraham Lincoln Elected

    Abraham Lincoln is elected as the first republican president in many years.

  • Confederacy Formed

    The Confederate States of America is formed, and Jefferson Davis is made president.

  • First Bull Run

    The Union army is defeated by the Confederacy in the First Bull Run. This battle was the first major land battle of the Civil War, and a milestone.

  • Union Captures Fort Henry

    Union general, Ulysses S. Grant captures Fort Henry in Tennessee.

  • Battle of Antietam

    The bloodiest battle in American history takes place, killing 26,000 men.

  • Emancipation Proclamation

    Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation takes effect, giving blacks equal rights.

  • Gettysburg Address

    Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address.

  • March to the Sea

    Sherman begins the "March to the Sea".

  • Confederate Surrender

    Confederate general, Robert E. Lee, surrenders at Appomattox.

  • Lincon Assassinated

    Lincoln, after being elected for a second term, was shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theater. He died the next day.