Course Syllabus

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.