Fact Check: Trump Mistakenly Claims Civil War Ended in 1869, Not 1865
What We Know
During a press conference on June 27, 2025, President Donald Trump incorrectly stated that the Civil War ended in 1869, saying, "If you take the end day, was it 1869 or whatever" (NJ.com). This statement drew immediate criticism and mockery on social media, as the Civil War actually concluded in April 1865 when Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union forces (Latin Times).
The Civil War lasted from 1861 to 1865, a fact that is widely recognized and taught in American history. Trump's comment came in the context of discussing birthright citizenship, which he linked to the Civil War era, specifically referencing the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, which established birthright citizenship in the United States (NJ.com).
Analysis
Trump's claim that the Civil War ended in 1869 is factually incorrect and reflects a significant misunderstanding of a fundamental historical event. The consensus among historians and educational resources confirms that the Civil War ended in 1865. The year 1869 is notable for other historical events, such as the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad, but it is not associated with the conclusion of the Civil War.
The sources reporting on Trump's statement are credible and include established news organizations such as NJ.com and Latin Times, which provide context and reactions from the public and political figures regarding Trump's historical error. The reactions on social media highlight a broader concern about Trump's grasp of American history, with critics suggesting that such a fundamental mistake raises questions about his qualifications to lead (NJ.com, Latin Times).
Conclusion
The claim that Trump mistakenly stated the Civil War ended in 1869 is True. The historical record clearly indicates that the Civil War concluded in April 1865. Trump's confusion over this basic fact has been widely reported and criticized, underscoring the importance of accurate historical knowledge, particularly for someone in a leadership position.
