Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
Delegates to the Mississippi State Convention vote to secede from the United States. Celebrations include the presentation of a symbolic banner and troop preparations for defense.
The merchant vessel Star of the West arrives at Charleston Harbor to relieve the Federal garrison at Fort Sumter. But the South Carolinians have other ideas.
Abraham Lincoln meets with a prominent Republican and receives a recommendation about another regarding cabinet appointments.
Americans observe a day of reflection in hopes that it may inspire stronger efforts at compromise between North and South.
The Senate fails to adopt John J. Crittenden’s compromise plan due to Republicans’ refusal to expand slavery. This prompts more last-ditch efforts at conciliation, but it demonstrates the deep division that threatens to permanently break the Union.
President-elect Abraham Lincoln hosts a New Year’s reception but faces controversy regarding one of his cabinet picks. He withdraws the appointment while lobbyists urge him to reconsider.