The Civil War was the bloodiest and most destructive conflict in American history. Over 970,000 soldiers and civilians lost their lives as the North and South battled over the issues of states' rights and slavery from 1861 to 1865. While the war was fought over complex political and economic issues, it is most remembered for bringing an end to slavery and helping to establish protections for civil rights. The wounds of the Civil War also left a lasting reminder that Americans must stand united as one nation, not divided against themselves.