The History of the United States, 2nd Edition Season 1 Episode 45 The Union Drive to Victory

In season 1 episode 45 of The History of the United States, 2nd Edition, titled "The Union Drive to Victory," viewers are taken through the final stages of the Civil War. As the Union army gained momentum and began pushing Confederate forces back, President Abraham Lincoln faced growing opposition to his leadership and policies from within his own government. A particularly heated debate arose over whether to offer amnesty to former Confederate soldiers or punish them for their role in the rebellion.

Meanwhile, on the battlefield, Union General William T. Sherman launched his infamous "March to the Sea," cutting a devastating swath through the heart of Georgia and bringing the war closer to its end. The impact of this brutal campaign on both the Confederate and civilian populations is examined in detail.

As the Union forces closed in on Richmond, Virginia, the Confederate capital, President Jefferson Davis decided to flee, setting in motion a series of events that would ultimately lead to the end of the war. A dramatic reenactment of General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse brings the episode to a close, with historical analysis weighing in on the lasting impact of this pivotal moment in American history.

Throughout "The Union Drive to Victory," viewers are treated to expert commentary from a range of scholars and historians, providing in-depth analysis and historical context for the events depicted. Archival footage and reenactments bring the past to life, helping to create a vivid and compelling portrait of this crucial period in American history. Whether you're a student of history or just curious about the country's past, this episode is sure to be both informative and engaging.