The Complexity of Civil War Endings

This chapter delves into the significance of the Appomattox Court House surrender as a contested endpoint of the Civil War, contrasting it with the unequivocal conclusion of World War II. The discussion highlights the importance of civilian acknowledgment of defeat and explores various potential dates for marking the war's end, including Juneteenth and the ratification of the 13th Amendment. By drawing parallels to contemporary conflicts, the chapter emphasizes the misconceptions surrounding war narratives and the longing for clear resolutions.