The Civil War lasted from 1861 to 1865. It was fought between the North and the South over slavery. The North wanted to abolish slavery, the South wanted to continue slavery as it was essential to their prosperity and economy. This war became the bloodiest in the Nation's history. 

The abolitionist movement was in its prime in the 1860's. This movement was a partial cause of the war because it was so controversial. The women's suffrage movement primarily came to a halt in the 1860's because the war was the primary focus. The movement resumed post-war as suffragists like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony surfaced.

The 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments were added to the Constitution. The 13th Amendment abolishes all forms of slavery, "Neither slavery…will exist…Congress will have power to enforce it through legislation." The 14th Amendment states that the U.S. cannot deprive people of citizenship or their rights. The 15th Amendment allows all men regardless of race or social status to vote. 

Citation: Humanities Texas