What is considered the bloodiest war in American history?

The Civil War is recognized as the bloodiest war in American history due to the staggering number of casualties it produced. The conflict, which lasted from 1861 to 1865, resulted in an estimated 620,000 to 750,000 deaths, which represented about 2% of the U.S. population at that time. This high toll was partly due to the nature of the warfare, which involved large-scale battles and the lack of advanced medical care, leading to many deaths from wounds and diseases.

Additionally, the Civil War significantly impacted the nation, not only in terms of loss of life but also through its broader effects on American society, politics, and economy. The war settled key issues regarding slavery and states' rights, reshaping the future of the United States. The scale of the conflict and its consequences has solidified its place in history as the most devastating war for the nation in terms of American lives lost.