16th President of the United States, elected in 1860. He led the country during the Civil War and is known for his efforts to preserve the Union and abolish slavery.

Political party that gained power in the North and supported Abraham Lincoln. They played a crucial role in organizing and supporting the Union during the Civil War.

To formally withdraw from a political union or alliance. During the Civil War, several Southern states seceded from the United States, leading to the formation of the Confederacy.

The institution of owning and exploiting individuals as property. Slavery was a major cause of the Civil War, with the Northern states opposing it while the Southern states relied on it for their economy.

Refers to the United States as a political entity, specifically the Northern states during the Civil War. The Union fought against the Confederacy to preserve the country and end slavery.

Armed conflict between the Northern and Southern states of the United States. It took place from 1861 to 1865 and resulted in the victory of the Union, the abolition of slavery, and the preservation of the United States.

Executive order issued by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. It declared that all slaves in the Confederate states were to be set free, further weakening the Confederacy and strengthening the Union's cause.

Refers to the economic system and resources of the Southern states during the Civil War. The Southern economy heavily relied on agriculture, particularly cotton production, which was supported by slave labor.

Backing and assistance from European countries during the Civil War. While some European nations sympathized with the Confederacy, others supported the Union, which played a significant role in the outcome of the war.