In the previous section, you learned about some of the eras in U.S. history. There are different ways that eras can be defined. Some are defined by chronology. This means that events of the era occur in a particular order. Timelines can help you understand the chronology of events that characterize an era. The timeline below represents the Civil War era.

Click on each year and read about some of the events, issues, and individuals that define this era.

Some eras may be defined by an issue rather than a time period. For example, the issue of sectionalism is essential to understanding the Civil War and its causes. This is why sectionalism can be defined as an era. Because sectionalism grew over a long period of time, it is easier to understand the issues that surround it. Read the information about the characteristics of the era of sectionalism.