Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
165 YEARS AGO: At the Second Wheeling Convention, representatives of Virginia’s northwestern counties approve seceding from the state and forming the new state of Kanawha, despite constitutional violations regarding state formation.
165 YEARS AGO: Tensions escalate as Union camps challenge the supposed neutrality of Kentucky. This leads to growing conflict between Unionists and secessionists.
165 YEARS AGO: Both the Federal government and the people in the North step up scrutiny of anti-war sentiment, and constitutional guarantees are threatened.
165 YEARS AGO: Generals John B. Floyd and Henry A. Wise, both former Virginia governors, struggle to unite their divided forces against a Federal advance. Despite pressure from Robert E. Lee, Wise resists joining Floyd, resulting in ongoing disputes and operational delays.
165 YEARS AGO: George B. McClellan continues organizing his new Army of the Potomac and continues feuding with Winfield Scott.
165 YEARS AGO: Demoralized Federal troops begin a long retreat out of southwestern Missouri after their defeat at Wilson’s Creek.