A thorough look at the Civil War and Reconstruction--from family life to favorite pastimes. Characterized by the tragedy of the Civil War and its aftermath, the period of 1860 to 1876 presented the greatest challenge to a still young national government. The battle to abolish slavery and reform the country after the secession of 11 Southern states was led by Abraham Lincoln. Throughout this turmoil, a burgeoning industrial economy--made possible largely by the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869--began to transform the American economy and society just as profoundly as the effects of the war. Offering readers a fascinating glimpse into this period in history, The Civil War and Reconstruction is written in an easy-to-read narrative format enhanced by helpful further reading lists and black-and-white illustrations.