In this illustrated account of the bloodiest war fought on American soil, Brooks Simpson recounts the events of the war from the opening salvo at Fort Sumter to the Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House. An Illustrated History of the Civil War brings to life the realities of the war and the people who lived through it. It explains how the politics around slavery led to an unbridgeable divide between North and South and examines the strategies that led to the Union's eventual victory in 1865. Beautifully illustrated in full-color throughout, featuring an array of contemporary photographs, artworks and artifacts, it provides the perfect introduction to the tragic conflict. ABOUT THE SERIES: Sirius Visual Reference Library brings together wonderfully illustrated reference guides on scientific and historical topics, made bold and fascinating through full-color maps, timelines, photographs, feature boxes and other visual elements.