The historic event that greatly impacted the Coastal Plains region was the Civil War.

The Coastal Plains were greatly affected by the Civil War, especially in regards to agriculture and slavery. Because the Coastal Plains were a major cotton-producing region, the outcome of the war was vital to the region's economy. Slavery was abolished as a result of the war, changing labor structures and the agricultural environment. The area experienced economic difficulties after the war as it moved from a plantation-based to a more diversified economy. In addition to affecting social dynamics and cultural identities, the Civil War left a lasting impact that is still evident in the communities and customs of the Coastal Plains today.