In a paragraph, talk about what was lost, during the Civil War. What do you think the thoughts of the people were after the war? Try to look at it from all sides: North, South, and slaves. Use evidence that occurred in the Civil War to back up your response. Try to put yourself in the shoes of each side and ask yourself, "How would I feel?" This response is about personal reflection on the events and backing it up with evidence.

The Civil War was a brutal conflict that resulted in immense loss on all sides. For the North, there was a deep sense of grief for the many lives lost in battle, and the destruction of towns and cities. The South also suffered greatly, with whole communities left ravaged and families torn apart. The institution of slavery was abolished, freeing millions of African Americans who had been held in bondage for generations. However, for many former slaves, the end of the war did not bring immediate equality or freedom from discrimination. The thoughts of the people after the war were likely filled with a mix of sadness, relief, and uncertainty about the future. The evidence from the Civil War, including the staggering death toll, the widespread destruction, and the enduring legacy of racial inequality, all speak to the profound impact of this conflict on American society. Looking at it from all perspectives, it is clear that the Civil War was a deeply traumatic event that left scars that would linger for generations.