Civil War: Emancipation Proclamation, Black Soldiers, and Turning Point of 1863

Flashcards covering the Emancipation Proclamation, the role of black soldiers in the Civil War, and the turning point battles of Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and Vicksburg in 1863.

When did Abraham Lincoln issue the Emancipation Proclamation to avoid appearing desperate?

After a Union victory at Antietam.

What was the official effective date of the Emancipation Proclamation?

January 1, 1863.

Where did the Emancipation Proclamation specifically not free slaves immediately?

In Union states or border states.

How were slaves actually freed under the terms of the Emancipation Proclamation?

As their territory was captured by Union forces or they fled to Union lines.

What diplomatic effect did the Emancipation Proclamation have regarding Britain?

It made it hard for anti-slavery Britain to support the Southern war effort.

What did the Emancipation Proclamation encourage as a military measure?

Black enlistment in the Union army.

Which famous black unit, formed with the help of abolitionists, failed in an attempt to take Charleston's Fort Wagner?

The Massachusetts 54th.

What discriminatory conditions did black units face in the Union army until 1864?

They were segregated, poorly supplied, and paid less than white units.

What did African American soldiers risk if captured by Confederate forces?

Execution or re-enslavement.

Which Confederate general, later a founder of the KKK, notoriously massacred captured black soldiers at Fort Pillow?

Nathan Bedford Forrest.

At which battle in May 1863 did Lee and 'Stonewall' Jackson defeat a Union army twice their size?

Chancellorsville.

What significant loss did the Confederates suffer at the Battle of Chancellorsville?

'Stonewall' Jackson was shot by his own troops, lost an arm, and died from complications.

When did the Battle of Gettysburg take place?

July 1-3, 1863.

What were some of Lee's strategic reasons for invading Pennsylvania before Gettysburg?

To ease the siege of Vicksburg, empower Northern Democrats, and inspire European recognition.

Who was the Union general commanding the forces at Gettysburg?

General Meade.

What was the immediate result of the Battle of Gettysburg for Confederate hopes in the North?

It ended CSA hopes of invading the North.

What famous speech did Abraham Lincoln deliver after the Battle of Gettysburg, affirming his desire for the Union to survive?

The Gettysburg Address.

Who masterfully laid siege to Vicksburg from May to July 1863?

Ulysses S. Grant.

What was the crucial strategic outcome of the Union victory at Vicksburg?

It gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, cutting Texas off from the rest of the CSA.