For this assignment, you will write an original news broadcast about the Civil War in your own words. You can choose to create a 2 - 3 minute news broadcast with video, as you might see on TV or a radio broadcast with no video. You will submit a script of

**News Broadcast Script: The Civil War Chronicles** *Opening Music Fades Out* **Anchor:** "Good evening, I’m [Your Name], and welcome to The Civil War Chronicles. Tonight we take a deep dive into some of the pivotal moments and key figures that shaped the American Civil War. From the first shots fired to the tragic battles that claimed countless lives, the struggle between the North and the South has left an indelible mark on our nation's history. Let’s begin our journey." *Graphic Transition: “The Attack on Fort Sumter”* **Anchor:** "Our first story brings us to April 12, 1861, when the war officially began with the attack on Fort Sumter in South Carolina. With tensions rising between the Union and the Confederacy, Confederate forces launched a surprise attack on the federal garrison at Fort Sumter after the Union refused to surrender. After 34 hours of relentless bombardment, the fort capitulated, marking a significant victory for the South and effectively signaling the start of the Civil War. President Abraham Lincoln called for 75,000 volunteers to suppress the rebellion shortly after." *Graphic Transition: “The First Battle of Bull Run”* **Anchor:** "Fast forward to July 21, 1861, and we arrive at the First Battle of Bull Run, which unfolded in Virginia. What many expected to be a quick Union victory turned into a stunning setback. Confederate forces under General Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson faced off against General Irvin McDowell’s Union army. To the shock of many spectators and troops alike, the Confederates emerged victorious, sending Union troops into a chaotic retreat back to Washington, D.C. This battle shattered the North's hopes for a swift end to the war." *Graphic Transition: “Robert E. Lee”* **Anchor:** "As the war continued, one figure stood out prominently: General Robert E. Lee. Born in Virginia, Lee was a brilliant military strategist who initially served in the U.S. Army. When Virginia seceded from the Union, he made the controversial decision to lead the Confederate Army. Lee’s leadership proved instrumental in several major victories and further entrenched the conflict. However, it was at the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863 where his army faced a critical defeat, marking a turning point in the war." *Graphic Transition: “The Emancipation Proclamation”* **Anchor:** "In 1863, President Lincoln took one of the most momentous steps in American history with the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. This executive order declared the freedom of all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory, aiming to weaken the South’s war efforts and reshape the conflict's moral compass. While it didn't immediately free all slaves, it transformed the war into a fight for freedom and allowed African Americans to enlist in the Union armed forces, further bolstering their fight for rights." *Graphic Transition: "The Battle of Gettysburg"* **Anchor:** "Finally, we conclude with the Battle of Gettysburg, which occurred from July 1 to July 3, 1863, and is often regarded as the war's turning point. This three-day battle in Pennsylvania involved the largest number of casualties in the Civil War and culminated in a monumental victory for the Union, ending Lee's invasion of the North. The defeat severely weakened the Confederate Army and inspired President Lincoln to deliver his famous Gettysburg Address, which underscored the war's purpose: a new birth of freedom." *Closing Transition: “Reflecting on History”* **Anchor:** "These five moments are just a glimpse into the complex tapestry of the American Civil War, a conflict that continues to resonate in our society today. From battles fought to proclamations made, the war forever altered the landscape of our nation. Thanks for tuning in to The Civil War Chronicles. Stay informed and continue to reflect on our history. Until next time, I’m [Your Name]. Good night." *Closing Music Fades In* **Sources:** 1. National Park Service - "Fort Sumter" (nps.gov) 2. History.com - "The First Battle of Bull Run" (history.com) 3. PBS - "Robert E. Lee" (pbs.org) 4. National Archives - "Emancipation Proclamation" (archives.gov) 5. American Battlefield Trust - "Battle of Gettysburg" (battlefields.org) *Closing Music Fades Out* --- Feel free to modify the script further based on your preferences!