The Antebellum Period refers to the time in American history before the Civil War, roughly from the late 1810s to 1861. This era was marked by significant social, economic, and political changes, including the rise of abolitionism, the expansion of slavery in the South, and the growth of industrialization in the North. During this time, various reform movements emerged, addressing issues like women's rights and education. The period also saw the emergence of distinct regional identities, with the Southern states focusing on agriculture and the Northern states increasingly embracing manufacturing and commerce. These differences contributed to rising tensions that eventually led to the Civil War.