Course Description

Course Overview: Understanding the American Civil War

The American Civil War, often referred to as the War Between the States, stands as a testament to a time when a burgeoning nation's ideals, values, and very identity were deeply contested. This was not merely a clash of armies, but a profound struggle of ideologies, where family members found themselves on opposing sides, fueled by convictions and beliefs deeply rooted in the cultural, political, and economic fabric of the nation.

The United States, a young republic carved out from the ideals of liberty and democracy, found itself on the brink of dissolution. Key issues included the fierce debate over states' rights versus federal authority, the ethical, economic, and political facets of slavery, and ultimately, the overarching question of the Union's preservation.

Statistics paint a haunting picture of the Civil War's devastation: more American lives were lost in this conflict than in any other war before or since. The weight of its significance extends beyond numbers, as it sowed seeds of sentiments and beliefs that continue to resonate in American discourse today. For instance, the resonance of the Civil War can be felt in contemporary discussions on federal vs. state authority, racial equity, and regional identities.

This comprehensive course endeavors to provide an in-depth exploration into the pivotal moments, battles, and figures of the Civil War. We will traverse the timeline, uncovering the intricate web of political and social factors that culminated in this colossal conflict.

Lesson 1. Civil War Terminology and Course Structure

  • Dive into the essential vocabulary and overarching framework of the course to set a solid foundation for the subsequent modules.

Lesson 2. Setting The Stage: America's Path to Civil War

  • Delve into the events and sentiments leading up to the war, exploring the multifaceted causes that set the nation on this tumultuous path.

Lesson 3. The War Begins

  • An intricate look into the first salvos of the war, exploring the initial strategies and conflicts that set the tone for the battles ahead.

Lesson 4. The War Goes West

  • Understand the strategic importance of the Western Theater and how it played a pivotal role in shaping the war's progression.

Lesson 5. Escalation of Battles, 1862

  • A focused study on the major battles of this year, their significance, and their implications on the broader conflict.

Lesson 6. Battles of 1862, Continued

  • Continuing our deep dive into the crucial battles of 1862 and their reverberating impacts.

Lesson 7. The Decisive Battles of 1863-64, Battle of Chancellorsville

  • Dissect the strategies, outcomes, and broader ramifications of this seminal battle in the war's narrative.

Lesson 8. The Decisive Battles of 1863-64, Battle of Gettysburg

  • Uncover the intricacies of this turning point in the Civil War, its heroes, its strategies, and its enduring significance.

Lesson 9. The Decisive Battles of 1863-64, Battle of Vicksburg

  • Delve into the siege and eventual capture of Vicksburg, and its strategic importance in dividing the Confederacy.

Lesson 10. The End of the War

  • As the tides of war shift, explore the concluding chapters of the Civil War, understanding the paths to peace and the eventual reunification of the Union.

Lesson 11. Notable Figures of the American Civil War

  • Shine a spotlight on the men and women, both renowned and lesser-known, whose actions, decisions, and convictions shaped the course of the war.

Lesson 12. Summary of the Civil War

  • A holistic recapitulation of the Civil War, synthesizing the key takeaways and drawing connections to the present day.

Join us on this enlightening journey, as we navigate the profound depths of the American Civil War, a defining chapter in the annals of the United States. Through this course, students will gain a nuanced understanding, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complex tapestry of American history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a scholar, or simply curious, this course promises a transformative experience.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Summarize the major events and battles related to the American Civil War.
  • Identify the major political issues and philosophies that set the stage for the Civil War.
  • Describe the major issues that still exist today as a result of the Civil War.
  • Identify and describe the major figures of the Civil War.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 
 

Assessment Guide

Assessment Points
Introductions 5 points
The Telegraph and the Civil War 40 points
Was It Worth It? 25 points
Why was going to school important for kids during the Civil War? 25 Bonus Points Assignment 25 points
Causes of the Civil War 25 points
Lesson 2 Exam 10 points
First Battles 25 points
Lesson 3 Exam 10 points
Battles of 1861 25 points
Lesson 4 Exam 10 points
Battles of 1862 25 points
The Emancipation Proclamation 25 points
Lesson 5 Exam 10 points
Battle of Chancellorsville 25 points
Battle of Gettysburg 25 points
Aftermath of Battle 20 points
Was the Battle of Gettysburg the most important battle in American History? 20 points
Battle of Vicksburg 25 points
Was Vicksburg the Key? 30 points
Lesson 6 Exam 9 points
Final Battle 25 points
What if America's Civil War was also fought over religion? 20 points
People in the American Civil War 25 points
Lesson 7 Exam 10 points
Technology in the Civil War 20 points
The End 50 points
The Final Exam 28 points
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