You need the Flash Player version 8.0.0.0 or higher and a JavaScript enabled browser to view this site

Causes of War: April 12, 1861

Related Article: Learn more about the history of the American Civil War.

When Southern rebels fired on the Union’s Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, the Civil War officially began.

browse videos in civil war

Causes of War: April 12, 1861 (0:27)

When Southern rebels fired on the Union’s Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, the Civil War officially began.

Causes of War: A Virginian Family (2:35)

Families with ties to both the North and South were split in half.

Causes of War: The War Begins (0:58)

After a day and a half of bombardment by the CSA forces, the Union Fort Sumter surrendered. Virginia seceded, and by June 1861, three more states had joined the Confederacy.

American Civil War: Uniforms (0:46)

The housing, training, and dress of army volunteers is discussed.

American Civil War: Entertainment (1:08)

During the long periods between battles, soldiers wrote and read letters, sang songs, and played cards.

recently added

Gettysburg (0:45)

From the Archives of Discovery: In one of the bloodiest battles in United States history, the fate of the nation was decided. Learn more about Gettysburg and the Civil War in this video.