The pivotal event in 1865 that led to the end of the American Civil War was the surrender of Confederate General Robert E. Lee to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. This surrender marked the effective conclusion of major hostilities, though some skirmishes continued for weeks. The war had a profound impact on American society, resulting in significant changes, including the abolition of slavery and the restructuring of the United States. Lee’s surrender symbolized not only the defeat of the Confederacy but also a step toward national reconciliation and healing after years of intense conflict.