Ep 1. The Cause, 1861

The Civil War: A Film By Ken Burns is a nine-part documentary series that explores the causes, events, and aftermath of the American Civil War. The first episode, titled The Cause, 1861, sets the stage for the conflict by examining the political, social, and economic differences between the North and South that led to the secession of the Confederate states.

The episode begins by introducing the key players on both sides of the conflict, including Abraham Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, and Robert E. Lee. It then delves into the issues that divided the nation, such as slavery, states’ rights, and tariffs. Through interviews with historians and readings from primary sources, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the complex factors that contributed to the outbreak of war.

One of the primary issues discussed in the episode is slavery, which had been a contentious issue since the founding of the United States. The North had gradually abolished slavery in the early 19th century, while the South continued to rely on it for its economy. As the country expanded westward, tensions grew over whether new territories would allow slavery or not.

Another major issue was states’ rights, with the South arguing that the federal government had no right to interfere with the laws and customs of individual states. This conflict came to a head with the election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860, who was seen as a threat to the southern way of life.

The episode explores the events that followed Lincoln’s election, including the secession of several southern states and the formation of the Confederate States of America. As tensions escalated, the episode shows how both sides began preparing for war, with the North enlisting soldiers and the South building up their military defenses.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to a variety of primary sources such as letters, diaries, and newspaper clippings that offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of people living during the time of the Civil War. These sources help to bring the history of the war to life, making it a more personal and relatable experience for viewers.

Overall, The Cause, 1861 sets the stage for the Civil War by exploring the complex factors that led to the outbreak of conflict. Through a combination of interviews with historians, primary sources, and dramatic reenactments, the episode offers a comprehensive overview of the events that shaped the course of American history.