American Civil War (1861-1865)

Learn the individual stories of men and women who were involved in major events leading up to, during and after the The Civil War (1861-1865).

The Pluff Mud Advantage
Episode 14

Video

Home field advantage is key, especially in battle. College of Charleston's Dr. Scott Harris is very familiar with the muck that changed the odds in the Battle of Secessionville.
The Battle of Secessionville
Episode 10

Video

The Challenge The Union Army decides the time is right to move into position on James Island and capture Charleston Harbor. Citadel professor Dr. Kyle Sinisi guides us through the military maneuvers...
The Battle of Secessionville
Episode 12

Video

The Battle Confederate and Union forces clash in a short, bloody fight. Citadel professor Dr. Kyle Sinisi guides us through the military maneuvers that climaxed on June 16, 1862.
The Battle of Secessionville
Episode 11

Video

The Confrontation Confederate forces at the Tower Battery push back against the Union's advancement toward their position. Citadel professor Dr. Kyle Sinisi guides us through the military maneuvers...
The Planter at the Gate, Part 4
Episode 4

Video

President Lincoln blockades Southern ports. The Union takes Port Royal Sound. The coastal planters flee leaving tens of thousands of enslaved people free.
The Planter at the Gate, Part 7
Episode 7

Video

There are two avenues into Charleston for the Union Army. Driven by information from Smalls, the Union goes for the back door - right through James Island and Thomas Lamar.
The Planter at the Gate, Part 5
Episode 5

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Robert E. Lee redevelops his strategy for defending the South. Sea island plantation owners feel abandoned. The stage is set for Robert Smalls.
The Planter at the Gate, Part 8
Episode 8

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June 16, 1862. The battle begins in the pre-dawn hours. The Union miscalculates the fierce defense rendered by Confederate cannon fire and becomes mired in Mother Nature’s secret weapon.
The Planter at the Gate, Part 9
Episode 9

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Hundreds are left dead on the field of battle as the Union is repelled. Thomas Lamar is declared a hero but suffers the consequences of the bloody encounter.
The Planter at the Gate, Part 6
Episode 6

Video

In a daring move, Robert Smalls and his crew commandeer the steamship, The Planter, sail past Fort Sumter and deliver the ship and key intelligence to the Union.