Timeline: Timeline of the American Civil War

May 30, 1854

Kansas-Nebraska Act

This act people in the territories of Kansas and Nebraska to decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery within their borders. The Act served contradicted the Missouri Compromise of 1820 which prohibited slavery north of latitude 36°30´.

Oct 16, 1859

John Brown raids Harper's Ferry

John Brown was an abolitionist who intiated an armed slave revolt at the US government's arsenal at Harper's Ferry.

Nov 6, 1860

Abraham Lincoln elected President

Abraham Lincoln becomes the 16th President

Dec 20, 1860

South Caroline secedes from the Union

Apr 12, 1861

Battle of Fort Sumter

The siege and surrender of Fort Sumter by Brig. General P.G.T. Beauregard was the official start of the Civil War.

Jun 3, 1861

Battle of Philippi

The first official battle of the Civil War located in West Virginia. Resulted in Union victory.

Jul 21, 1861

First Battle of Bull Run

AKA The Battle of Manassas. The first major battle of the Civil War that resulted in a large victory for the South.

Jan 19, 1862

Battle of Mill Springs

First SIGNIFICANT victory of Union. Fought here in KY

Feb 6, 1862

Fort Henry

First combat with ironclad gunboats. 120 casualties total. Resulted in Union Victory.

Apr 6, 1862

Battle of Shiloh

Battle fought in Tennessee. Technology a Union victory, but with mass casualties on both sides, there was no clear winner.

May 5, 1862

Battle of Williamsburg

Located in Virginia. Reslted in a retreat from the South.

Aug 28, 1862

Second Battle of Bull Run

The second Battle of Bull Run was fought in Virgina and resulted in the Union being driven back by the Confederate army.

Sep 17, 1862

Battle of Antietam

The most significant battle of the Civil War. Turned around the outcome of the war with a victory for the Union.

Jan 1, 1863

The Emancipation Proclamation is signed

Issued by President Lincoln. Declared "that all persons held as slaves" within the rebellious states "are, and henceforward shall be free."

Jul 1, 1863

The Battle of Gettysburg begins

Lee's second invasion of the North failed on the 3rd day of Battle

Sep 19, 1863

Battle of Chickamauga

Battle fought over control of the Chattanooga, TN railroad. The Union was able to secure a victory.

Nov 19, 1863

Gettysburg Address

President Lincoln addressed the nation with the Gettysburg address. In his speech, he honored the falled Union soldiers and redefined the purpose of the war.