Access to History for the IB Diploma: US Civil War (1840-1877) (NYP August 2026)

Access to History for the IB Diploma: The US Civil War (1840–1877)

Fully updated for first assessment in 2028

Access to History for the IB Diploma: The US Civil War (1840–1877) provides authoritative, engaging, and curriculum-aligned coverage of one of the most defining periods in United States history. Revised for the updated IB DP History curriculum (first teaching 2026), this edition supports students in developing a clear and nuanced understanding of the political tensions, social divisions, military developments, and lasting consequences of the Civil War era.

Written by leading historians and IB specialists, this volume offers a compelling narrative supported by diverse historical perspectives, a rich range of source material, and the conceptual and analytical guidance required to succeed in the 2028 IB History assessments.

Key Features

Comprehensive coverage of the Civil War era

This book explores the decades leading to conflict, the outbreak and course of the war, and the complex challenges of Reconstruction. Students gain insight into the causes of sectional tension, constitutional disputes, leadership decisions, economic pressures, military strategies, and the experiences of enslaved people, soldiers, and civilians.

Aligned to the updated 2026 IB History curriculum

Fully tailored to the IB’s revised course structure, this title integrates the four required historical concepts throughout:

• Cause and consequence

• Continuity and change

• Perspectives

• Significance

These concepts guide students in developing historical thinking that is essential for Paper 2, Paper 3 (The Americas), and the Internal Assessment.

Clear, expert narrative

The text breaks down complex events with clarity and accuracy, offering students reliable explanations that help them understand not only what happened, but why it mattered—both in its own time and for later American history.

Strong emphasis on historical inquiry

Students engage with a broad range of primary and secondary sources that reflect differing viewpoints and lived experiences. Skills-based activities help learners investigate evidence, question assumptions, refine arguments, and synthesize findings.

Integrated Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Approaches to Learning (ATL)

TOK questions challenge students to reflect on how historians construct interpretations of conflict, freedom, and national identity. ATL tasks build critical research, writing, and communication skills aligned to IB expectations.

Purposeful exam preparation for 2028 and beyond

To support success in the redesigned assessments, the book includes:

• Paper-style practice questions

• Model student responses

• Assessment-focused commentary

• Revision summaries and study guidance

These tools prepare students for analytical essays, source work, and comparative writing across IB components.

Why This Book Is Ideal for IB History Students

• Fully adapted to the new DP History curriculum model

• Suitable for HL regional study (The Americas) and SL thematic understanding

• Supports conceptual mastery and strong historical writing

• Provides balanced perspectives, including marginalized voices

• Effective for classroom instruction, independent study, and exam preparation

A Trusted Resource for IB Diploma History

With its authoritative content, student-friendly structure, and inquiry-driven approach, Access to History for the IB Diploma: The US Civil War (1840–1877) is an essential resource for schools teaching the IB Diploma Programme. It ensures that learners gain both the factual knowledge and the analytical skill required to understand one of the most transformative periods in American history.