The Civil War was on eof the defining events in the history of the United States. More Americans were killed in the Civil War than in any other war. The war evoked passionated determination on both sides, which resulted in a protracted war with a level of destruction not seen before.

The Civil War occurred between the Southern and the Northern States primarily on the issue of Slave ownership and the economic consequences of ending slavery.

The economy of the Southern States were based on agriculture, which in turn, was based on cheap slave labor. For the farmers in the south, ending slavery could have meant ending their livelihood and hence, the issue was very dear to them.

On the other hand, the Northern States were more affluent and had a more industrial economy and hence, they could support ending slavery.

Advantages:

The biggest advantage of the Civil War was the subsequent freedom for all slaves across the United States. After the civil war ended it eventually paved the way for a civil rights movement which after a 100 years was able to provide universal suffrage.

Disadvantages:

The huge loss of life could have been avoided. Many women were left widowed and many children were orphaned.

It also left a rift between the northern and southern states, which till this day, sporadically spurs into the public.

The Civil War was a defining event to the United States in that it brought an end to slavery with the ratification of the 13th Amendment. The period of Reconstruction that ensued following the war developed industry. However, the war had a devastating effect on families and led to an immense loss of lives.