Causes of the Civil War

The American Civil War (1861–1865) was the bloodiest conflict in American history, killing an estimated 620,000–750,000 soldiers. Understanding its causes is essential for the AQA GCSE History specification. The war was caused by a combination of long-term tensions over slavery, states' rights, and economic differences between the North and the South.

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The Slavery Question

Slavery was the single most important cause of the Civil War. By 1860, approximately 4 million enslaved African Americans lived in the Southern states.

Key Differences Between North and South