The American Civil War, also known as the War Between the States or the War of Northern Aggression, was a major conflict fought within the United States from 1861 to 1865. Other synonyms for the American Civil War include the War for Southern Independence, the Rebellion, and the War of Secession. It was a devastating conflict that saw brother fight against brother and claimed the lives of over 620,000 Americans. Despite the devastation, however, the Civil War ultimately paved the way for the abolition of slavery and the reunification of the United States. The legacy of this pivotal event in American history continues to resonate today.