Module Introduction

This module examines the impact of the election of 1860, the secession of the Southern states following Lincoln’s victory, the relative strengths and weaknesses of the Union and the Confederacy, the military history of the war, as well as the economic and social changes that resulted from the war.

As you read this module, take note of the mistakes made by the South in particular, and think back to the way the colonists fought the American Revolution. What could the South have done differently to give them a better chance of winning? What lessons can our current military leaders learn from the South’s mistakes? ¹

Learning Outcomes

This module addresses the following Course Learning Outcomes listed in the Syllabus for this course:

• Students will be able to think critically about institutions, cultures, and behaviors in their local and/or national environment.
• Students will understand the social, political, and economic development of the United States.
• Students will develop a historical context for understanding current issues and events. ¹

Module Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

• Assess the strengths and weaknesses each side had going into the Civil War.
• Evaluate the reasons for the Union victory.
• Evaluate the long-term significance of the Union victory. ¹

Readings and Resources

• Module 7 Learning Unit