Explore how the historic Election of 1860, featuring Abraham Lincoln and a fractured nation, served as the ultimate catalyst for the American Civil War.
American History
New York Draft Riots: 1863, Civil War & Causes
Discover the history of the 1863 New York Draft Riots. Explore the deep-seated class tensions, racial violence, and political division of Civil War Manhattan.
The Civil War and Its Legacy
Explore the deep legacy, major turning points, and key figures of the American Civil War, from the struggle to end slavery to its impact on modern society.
First Battle of Bull Run
Explore the First Battle of Bull Run, the historic clash that shattered illusions of a quick Civil War. Read about key figures, turning points, and its legacy.
How a Black Spy Infiltrated the Confederate White House
Discover the incredible true story of Mary Bowser and Elizabeth Van Lew, the daring Union spy ring that successfully infiltrated the Confederate White House.
How Benjamin ‘Pap’ Singleton Led an Exodus of Freed Black Americans West
Discover how Benjamin ‘Pap’ Singleton led the historic Exoduster migration of thousands of freed Black Americans to Kansas seeking freedom and land.
5 Formerly Enslaved People Turned Statesmen
Discover the inspiring stories of 5 formerly enslaved men—including Robert Smalls and Blanche K. Bruce—who rose to become America’s first Black statesmen.
What’s the difference between a carpetbagger and a scalawag?
Discover the true history of carpetbaggers and scalawags during the Reconstruction era. Separate myth from historical fact in this engaging guide.
The Other Targets of John Wilkes Booth’s Murder Conspiracy
Discover the dark history behind John Wilkes Booth’s multi-target assassination conspiracy against William Seward, Andrew Johnson, and Abraham Lincoln.
Missouri Compromise
Explore the history, key figures, and lasting impact of the Missouri Compromise of 1820, a high-stakes deal that temporarily saved the Union but led to the Civil War.
The Hunt for Abraham Lincoln’s Killer: John Wilkes Booth
Discover the thrilling 12-day hunt for John Wilkes Booth. Read about the conspiracy, key figures, and the lasting impact of Lincoln’s assassination.
The Post-Civil War Origins of the 14th Amendment’s Disqualification Clause
Discover the history of the 14th Amendment’s Disqualification Clause, drafted after the Civil War to protect the U.S. Constitution from future insurrections.