Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: President Abraham Lincoln convenes his cabinet to discuss what to do about Fort Sumter amidst differing opinions. Lincoln weighs the costs of abandonment versus holding the fort, and then decides to send someone there to assess the garrison’s condition.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Three Confederate commissioners arrive in Washington to negotiate the peaceful transfer of Fort Sumter from U.S. to Confederate hands. Secretary of State William H. Seward takes it upon himself to discuss the situation with the commissioners despite President Abraham Lincoln’s instruction not to do so.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Jefferson Davis prioritizes securing foreign recognition for the new Confederacy by appointing three commissioners for diplomatic missions to three influential European nations. Meanwhile, Federal military officers continue to resign to go South, and Confederate officials approach Robert E. Lee to do the same.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: The Provisional Confederate Congress adopts a permanent Confederate Constitution. It closely resembles the U.S. Constitution but with key exceptions regarding states’ rights and the maintenance of slavery.
The Provisional Confederate Congress approves measures to establish a temporary government, develop regulations, and approve the president’s cabinet appointments. Congress also approves military measures and treasury notes to support the new Confederate nation. The design of the “Stars and Bars” is also recommended, symbolizing a blend of southern pride and nostalgia.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Many of Abraham Lincoln’s advisors recommend abandoning Fort Sumter, but Lincoln considers a different course of action.