Royal Fireworks Online Learning is now offering an additional online course with Dr. Steve Cox: The American Civil War: From Slavery to Segregation. The American Civil War can’t be fully understood by studying its battles alone. In this course, students will examine the political, economic, and social conflicts that led to the war, the people who shaped it, and the difficult years of Reconstruction that followed.

The American Civil War: From Slavery to Segregation
Instructor: Dr. Steve Cox
Student Ages: 13–18
Class Meetings: Thursdays, 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Dates: September 10 – December 17, 2026
(This is a one-semester course.)
Cost: $550

Course Highlights:
– Examine the events and ideas that led to the Civil War, including the debate over slavery, westward expansion, the conflict between slave states and free states, and the political crisis of the 1850s.
– Follow the war from Confederate ascendancy through Union victory, exploring important battles, turning points, and participants.
– Learn about both famous and lesser-known figures, including Abraham Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, Ulysses S. Grant, Robert E. Lee, Frederick Douglass, the Grimké sisters, Abby Kelley, and John C. Calhoun.
– Study the assassination of Lincoln, the impeachment of Andrew Johnson, Reconstruction, and the failure to establish a truly biracial society.
– Read original documents alongside short secondary sources.
– Write brief papers on topics of individual interest.

This course approaches the Civil War not simply as a series of events but as a complex period shaped by competing ideas, economic interests, political movements, and individual people.

Explore More with Dr. Steve Cox!

Students can explore more history with Dr. Cox through courses in American history, local history, and family history. Dr. Cox also offers individual enrichment and private instruction, allowing students to pursue a particular historical interest in greater depth. Courses are available for students ages 11–18, with options ranging from broad surveys of American history to highly individualized research.

Installment Pay Option: We offer installment payment plans at no additional cost. For more information and to enroll, visit the Online Learning page.

As always, if you have questions or need assistance in selecting a course, feel free to call us at (845) 726-4444. We’re here to help! Our phone lines are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

Happy learning!
The Royal Fireworks Team