Causes of the Civil War: Analyzing Events

The Civil War began in 1861, but tensions between the North and South started much earlier. In this three-page social studies worksheet, students will do independent research to answer questions about the key events that contributed to growing tensions and hostilities leading up to the Civil War. Students will be asked to examine the impact of events like the Missouri Compromise, the publication of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, the Dred Scott Decision, John Brown’s Raid, Lincoln’s election, and more. Students may choose to use the Causes of the Civil War Timeline to aid them in their independent research.