The Civil War Animated Battle Map: April 12, 1861 – May 9, 1865

The Civil War remains the bloodiest conflict in American history. Follow the events as they unfold — from the firing on Fort Sumter, to the single bloodiest day at Antietam, to the Confederate surrenders at Appomattox Court House and Bennett Place. 0:00 - Overview 1:36 - 1861: The Gathering Storm 6:19 - 1862: The Long Road Ahead 11:04 - 1863: Shifting Tides 16:44 - 1864: Year of Decision 22:25 - 1865: A New Birth of Freedom 24:41 - Wrap Up and Legacy This updated version of the video addresses YouTube’s previous age-restriction that was based on graphic scenes that we have identified and replaced with relevant content. An age restriction limits the audience we may reach. Our goal is to make this content available to the widest audience possible—especially students. The American Battlefield Trust preserves America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educates the public about what happened there and why it matters. We permanently protect these battlefields for future generations