The Terrible Conflict

     It was delightful to be back in class with everyone today! I have missed our "crazy" discussions. Today was no exception; we definitely discussed a variety of interesting things. I can honestly say that I learned a lot about photography. I also learned where American Girl got their idea for the doll stand:) Haha.... I am also positive that I don't want a robot!

     On a more serious note, the War Between the States consumed all of America. The Confederate army did their best to succeed against the Union, but they ultimately surrendered in April of 1865. Recovering from the war would take many years and would bring new challenges and costs to the people. Just as our nation emerged from the ashes, Lincoln's assassination cast a dark shadow on the country. It changed the tone in Washington and across the land. The Civil War holds a unique place in American history. Books are still churned out today, adding to an already immense library on the subject. PBS has produced documentaries and mini-series about the war and each have been best sellers. Both sides believed deeply in their cause and felt they were supported by God in their efforts. The war was a huge tragedy for our country, affecting so many lives, and had deeply troubling effects. We will continue to see how the Reconstruction unfolded in the next 2 weeks.

     Because I am such a history nerd, I had to share one of my antiques with you today. I LOVE anything that comes from periods in history, and this one is certainly a favorite of mine.

This camera from the 1800's has been passed down through my family for a long time. As you all found out, it is much heavier then a modern day camera, has more complicated pieces, but is vastly more beautiful. Of course, that is just my humble opinion:)

 Here is your homework for the week:
1. Read Unit 14 on the Reconstruction
2. Complete bible assignments
3. Complete project for NEXT week
4. Work on Timeline
No unit project this week.
Just work on your 2-3 minute presentation with completed poster board.
You should have at least 1 map, interesting facts, pictures, and anything else you can come up with. Be creative! Impress us with what you learned while researching your topic! 

The Nation Divides

     The Civil War was a dark time in American history. More lives were lost in this war then in any other war we have fought in to date. When the Confederates opened fire on Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, the War between the States had begun.
     Many still disagree about what caused the War between the States. Opinions differ over whether the root cause of the War was over slavery or state's rights. Regardless of the cause, it forever changed our country. Over the course of the war, heavy fighting occurred in several places throughout the South. Every Confederate state saw military action and suffered great loss of lives. Plantations  and crops were destroyed and many were left homeless. However, the slaves gained their freedom, and the Union entered into a new beginning.
There are a few little known facts about the 4 year War that I found interesting:
1. Lincoln wanted to send all black slaves out of America so they could live in freedom. Many were opposed to this, especially the slaves.
2. Lincoln was almost killed two years before his assassination.
3. 2/3 of the soldiers died from disease, infection, starvation, or weather conditions.
4. The most common surgery during the war was amputation.
5. 7 future presidents fought in the War.
6. Income Tax was established after the war, so we can thank the War between the States for the IRS:)

In the next Unit, you will read about the aftermath of the bloody War. It took our country years to recover from the brutal event.

   

     You are now officially on Thanksgiving break from history! Are you excited! You still have a little homework but nothing major. I am going to miss our energetic discussions for the next 2 weeks. We will have so much to catch up on!

Homework:
1. read Unit 13 and write out memory verse
2. work on semester project ( I will send out the requirements for the project)
3. add to Timeline
4. eat lots of good food!

Have a great Thanksgiving!