antebellum
UK: ˌantɪˈbɛləm | US: ˌæntiˈbɛləm
adj. occurring or existing before a war, especially the American Civil War
The word "antebellum" is derived from Latin, combining "ante" (meaning "before") and "bellum" (meaning "war"). It was adopted into English in the mid-19th century, primarily to describe the pre-Civil War era in the Southern United States. The term evokes the cultural and economic conditions of the period, particularly the agrarian economy and social structures tied to slavery. The Latin roots are straightforward, with "ante" appearing in other English words like "antecedent" and "bellum" in "bellicose."
The antebellum plantations of the South were often grand and opulent.
Antebellum architecture is characterized by its large columns and symmetrical design.
Many historical novels are set in the antebellum period.
The antebellum economy relied heavily on cotton production.
Scholars study antebellum literature to understand pre-war societal values.