Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
Confederate envoys try to garner foreign support as the U.S. State Department warns the foreign powers not to recognize Confederate independence.
Letter from William B. Darst, 21st Virginia Volunteer Infantry, to his mother.
A young Federal officer suggests a quick strike against the Confederacy, but General Scott prefers a more methodical approach.
Jefferson Davis delivers a message to the Confederate Congress condemning the Lincoln administration’s declaration of war against the Confederacy.
Maryland legislators reject secession as President Lincoln controversially suspends the writ of habeas corpus in areas surrounding the state.
The mid-South states of North Carolina, Tennessee and Arkansas reject President Lincoln’s call for volunteers and take steps toward joining the Confederacy.