The Civil War in a Global Context
The conflict between the North and South – from matters of slavery to the issue of secession – was a defining moment in U.S. history, an upheaval of American society. Yet it was only one development on the world stage, occurring the midst of an era of change. Foreign nations that held interests in the outcome of the war had other factors that drew attentions and affected outside influences upon it.
The Civil War and Early Modern Anglo-American Ties
From the Civil War arose defining moments for the shifting Anglo-American relationship, transforming between the early and late 19th century. Beginning the century as adversaries and ending it in greater cooperation, these developments were further steps towards closer ties. For the U.S. and U.K., such events were precursors to the modern interactions and alliances of the 20th century.
The Trent Affair
Early in the War, in the fall of 1861, an event in the Caribbean threatened war between the North and Great Britain. The interception of the British mail carrier Trent by the USS San Jacinto, followed by the arrest and removal of its Confederate passengers, sparked a month-long crisis in diplomacy and public opinion. The Affair escalated tension over Britain’s declared neutrality, leading to review – by both nations – of the rights of belligerents and neutral powers through into the aftermath of the war.