Unites States History A 2:10 Major Battles That Ended the War

Siege of Vicksburg

Union victory that gave control of the Mississippi River and split the Confederacy in half.

Battle of Gettysburg

A three-day battle in Pennsylvania; turned the tide of the war in the Union’s favor.

Pickett’s Charge

Failed Confederate assault on Union lines at Gettysburg; marked the high-water mark of the Confederacy.

Gettysburg Address

Lincoln’s speech emphasizing national unity, liberty, and democracy as war goals.

Total War

Union strategy under Sherman to destroy civilian and economic resources that supported the Confederacy.

Sherman’s March to the Sea

Devastating Union campaign from Atlanta to Savannah destroying railways, factories, and farms.

Appomattox Court House

Location where Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant in April 1865, ending major hostilities.

Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address

Called for national healing, “with malice toward none and charity for all.”