This page is an interactive timeline of key events in the Civil War and Reconstruction. Each story is from the perspective of an object that was at the event. Stories are told by some of my students from the 2013-14 school year. This timeline only highlights a few of the key events of the Civil War & Reconstruction which are included in the Georgia 5th grade standards. 

1853--Uncle Tom's Cabin was published. This best selling book by Harriet Beecher Stowe caused an outrage over slavery. Video by Leila.



1859--John Brown took a more violent approach toward trying to end slavery. He tried to start a slave revolt by breaking into a U.S. armory and giving weapons to slaves. He failed, but drew attention to his cause. Video by Noah.

1861--Shortly after Lincoln was elected president, 13 southern states seceded from the U.S. They attacked Fort Sumter in South Carolina and demanded that U.S. troops leave their fort. Video by Alex.

1863--The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the war. The south had been winning until they fought their first battle on Union soil. They lost and were pushed back for the remainder of the war. Video by Ella.


1865--General Lee surrendered to General Grant at Appomattox, Virginia. The war was finally over. Video by Callie.





1865--13th amendment officially ends slavery
1868-14th amendment gives equal rights to all men regardless of race
1870-15th amendment gives African American men the right to vote
1876-1965--Jim Crow laws keep African Americans separate from whites, despite the law saying they should be equal. Videos by Emily and Natalie.