What was a major effect of the Civil War on U.S. society?

The major effect of the Civil War on U.S. society was the abolition of slavery and significant social change. The conflict fundamentally altered the social fabric of the nation, as the war resulted in the passing of the Thirteenth Amendment, which officially ended legal slavery in the United States. This landmark decision not only freed millions of African Americans but also set in motion a series of social changes aimed at integrating formerly enslaved people into society.

The aftermath of the Civil War prompted the Reconstruction era, during which efforts were made to address the social, political, and economic challenges of reintegrating Southern states into the Union and establishing rights for newly freed individuals. This period saw significant developments such as the establishment of schools for African Americans, legal battles for civil rights, and the rise of movements advocating for equality. The emancipation of enslaved people also challenged existing social norms and prompted broader debates regarding race, citizenship, and human rights that continued to resonate throughout U.S. history.

While other options highlight important aspects of the post-war era, such as industrialization and political dynamics, the central and most transformative effect of the Civil War was indeed the abolition of slavery and its far-reaching impact on American society.