Battle Turns

This passage describes key battles of the Civil War and their impact on the outcome. It explains the Battle of Antietam, the Battle of Gettysburg, and the Siege of Vicksburg, showing how each shifted momentum toward the Union. Sherman’s March to the Sea is highlighted as a destructive but decisive event. The war finally ended with Lee’s surrender at Appomattox in 1865. These battles were turning points that shaped the future of the United States.

Passages like this improve students’ ability to follow chronological events and recognize cause-and-effect relationships. They expand vocabulary with words like “surrender,” “emancipation,” and “turning point.” Students also practice summarizing long sections into main ideas. Exposure to historical content deepens critical thinking and interpretation skills. Additionally, reading about battles strengthens comprehension of informational texts filled with factual detail.