In 1860 and 1861, eleven states seceded from the Union, forming the Confederate States of America. This led to armed conflict between North and South, a Civil War that lasted from 1861 until 1865. How did disagreements over slavery lead to the war? Who were the leaders on both sides of the conflict? How did it eventually end? And what was the historical impact of this war between the states? Supporting state and national social studies standards, this book offers a clear, straightforward overview of the Civil War--an essential topic for any student of U.S. history.