War Information
10 sectionsWar History and Conflicts in Atlanta
Atlanta, known as the 'Phoenix City,' rose from the ashes of the Civil War, but its history is intertwined with racial violence and the struggle for justice.
Founding and Civil War (1837–1865)
Atlanta was founded in 1837 as 'Terminus' — the end of a railroad line. During the Civil War, the city became a vital supply center and railroad hub for the Confederacy. In July 1864, the Battle of Atlanta occurred — Union General William Sherman defeated the Confederate army. After a siege, Sherman captured the city on September 2, 1864, and burned it. Only churches and hospitals survived the fire.
Atlanta Race Riot (1906)
On September 22-24, 1906, white mobs attacked Atlanta's Black neighborhood. 25 to 100 Black people were killed. Hundreds were injured and thousands displaced. The riot began after false newspaper reports about 'Black attacks on white women.'
Civil Rights Movement (1950s–1960s)
Atlanta was known as 'the city too busy to hate,' but it was actually the center of the Civil Rights Movement. Martin Luther King Jr. led Ebenezer Baptist Church. Sit-ins at downtown stores challenged racial segregation.
Atlanta Child Murders (1979–1981)
Over 28 Black children and teenagers disappeared and were killed in Atlanta. Police and city government failed to respond adequately. The crisis left deep trauma on the Black community.
