Civil War Key Events and Decisions

The video explores the start of the U.S. Civil War, focusing on the Battle of Fort Sumter in April 1861. It provides context by discussing the secession of Southern states following Lincoln's election and his inaugural address. Lincoln's careful approach to avoid aggression is highlighted, as he aimed to maintain the Union without provoking further secession. The video details the events at Fort Sumter, where Confederate forces attacked, marking the war's beginning. It also covers the subsequent secession of additional states and the strategic importance of border states like Maryland.

What event is considered the official start of the United States Civil War?

• The signing of the Emancipation Proclamation

• The election of Abraham Lincoln

• The Battle of Gettysburg

• The Battle of Fort Sumter

Which state was the first to secede from the Union after Lincoln's election?

• South Carolina

• Texas

• Georgia

• Virginia

What was a key concern for Lincoln when addressing the Confederate states in his inaugural speech?

• To declare war immediately

• To appear aggressive and firm

• To abolish slavery immediately

• To bring the Confederate states back peacefully

In his inaugural address, what did Lincoln emphasize about the Union?

• It was perpetual

• It was negotiable

• It was temporary

• It was dissolvable

What strategic decision did Lincoln make regarding Fort Sumter to avoid appearing as the aggressor?

• He sent armed troops to the fort

• He surrendered the fort immediately

• He ignored the fort's needs

• He sent only supplies, not weapons

Who ordered the attack on Fort Sumter before Union supplies could arrive?

• Abraham Lincoln

• Robert E. Lee

• Jefferson Davis

• Ulysses S. Grant

What was the outcome of the Battle of Fort Sumter?

• The Union won decisively

• The Confederates surrendered

• The Union surrendered the fort

• Both sides agreed to a truce

Which states seceded from the Union immediately after the Battle of Fort Sumter?

• Virginia and North Carolina

• Maryland and Delaware

• New York and Pennsylvania

• Kentucky and Missouri

Why was Maryland's position during the Civil War particularly concerning for the Union?

• It was the largest state

• It was a major industrial center

• It bordered Washington D.C.

• It had the most soldiers

What action did Lincoln take in Maryland to prevent it from joining the Confederacy?

• He abolished slavery

• He declared martial law

• He allowed free speech

• He increased taxes