Civil War Readings

The city of Vicksburg, Mississippi, was the last major port on the Mississippi River held by the South. If the North could take Vicksburg, the Confederacy would be cut into two pieces: the east and the west. General Ulysses S. Grant of the Union army was convinced that the key to winning the war was the control of the Mississippi River. Taking Vicksburg would be the last step needed to achieve that goal. His first two attempts were failures, but Grant didn't give up.

Why was Vicksburg considered "the key" to winning the Civil War?

• It was shaped like a key.

• It was major port on the Mississippi River.

• It is the capital of Mississippi.

Confederate General Joe Johnston sent a message to General Pemberton in Vicksburg. He wanted him to cede the city and retreat so the Confederate forces there would not be captured.

What did it mean when Joe Johnston told Pemberton to "cede" the city?

• He wanted him to give up the city and retreat.

• He wanted him to plant seeds.

• He wanted him to defend the city.

Perhaps the best-known battle of the Civil War was Gettysburg. Men on both sides showed extreme courage and determination. It was the bloodiest battle of the Civil War with the highest death toll. It was of pivotal importance, marking a major turning point of the war.

Which Civil War battle had the highest death toll?

• Battle of Vicksburg

• Battle of Gettysburg

• Battle of Shiloh

Four-and-a-half months after the battle, the Soldiers' National Cemetery was dedicated on November 19, 1863. More than 3,500 men were buried there after the battle. President Lincoln gave a short speech to honor the dead. His Gettysburg Address is one of the most famous speeches in history.

When was the Soldiers' National Cemetery Dedicated?

• November 19, 2024

• In Gettysburg Pennsylvania

• November 19, 1863

It had been about four months since the North had won the battle at Gettysburg. The battle had left more than three thousand bodies on the battlefield. People wanted to bury these dead quickly and honorably. Pennsylvania bought land near where the battle was. This land became a cemetery.

Who won the Battle of Gettysburg?

• The North

• The South

• Germany

The main speaker on the day that the cemetery was dedicated was Edward Everett. At the time, he was considered to be one of the best public speakers in the country. Almost as an afterthought, Lincoln was also invited to speak that day. He was not the main speaker.

Who was the main speaker that day?

• Abraham Lincoln

• Mr. Herndon

• Edward Evertt

Which President of the United States delivered the Gettysburg Address?

• George Washington

• Abraham Lincoln

• Thomas Jefferson

In what Country was the Civil War fought?

• The United States

• Canada

• Arizona