The American Civil War Began and Ended in 1861-1965 and the two opposing sides in the war and what were their basic beliefs concerning slavery was between the confederate states and the United States of America’s union. Back in the 1800’s-1900’s, civil wars were very popular in many countries because when the people weren’t happy with their government or the ruler of the country, they would make a civil war and go against themselves. Nowadays, it’s less common to make civil wars. Yes, it still happens but governments are not only more fair towards the people, but making a civil war is the last resort of resolving a problem, so it has changed a lot.