Definition: The word "antebellum" means "before the war," but it refers specifically to the period in US history before the Civil War and after the War of 1812, the years 1815-1861.
The origin of "antebellum" is Latin, "ante" meaning before and "bellum" meaning war.
Also Known As: Antebellum Period
Examples:
The term antebellum can be used as an adjective, such as when referring to the antebellum South.
