What conflict was fought between the North and South from 1861 to 1865?

The conflict fought between the North and South from 1861 to 1865 is known as the American Civil War. This war was primarily centered around issues such as states' rights, economic disparities, and, most notably, the institution of slavery. The Southern states sought to maintain slavery and their agrarian lifestyle, while the Northern states opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories and were advancing towards industrialization. This stark difference in ideologies led to the outbreak of the war after a series of tensions and events, culminating in the Southern states seceding from the Union.

The Civil War resulted not only in significant loss of life and destruction but also laid the groundwork for fundamental changes in American society, including the abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment. Understanding this conflict is crucial for grasping the complexities of modern U.S. history and the ongoing discussions around civil rights and state versus federal authority. Other conflicts mentioned, such as the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and World War I, occurred during different times and revolved around different issues, making them distinct from the Civil War era.