The outcome of the American Civil War was primarily the preservation of the Union and the abolition of slavery in the United States. The war, fought from 1861 to 1865, pitted the Northern states against the Southern states, primarily over issues of states' rights and slavery. The defeat of the Confederacy led to the passage of the 13th Amendment, which officially abolished slavery across the nation. This period marked a significant turning point in American history, transitioning the country towards greater civil rights and the quest for equality. The consequences of the Civil War are still felt in contemporary society, influencing discussions on race and social justice.