Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
Abraham Lincoln expresses willingness to accept certain southern demands, but he reiterates that he will not accept any compromise with the South that might spread slavery into the territories.
Delegates to the Texas State Convention at Austin voted 166 to 7 to secede from the United States, and the Federal military commander in the state controversially turns over all property to the Texans.
The states of the upper South and the border with the North continue to contemplate joining the Deep South in seceding. Some, like Delaware and Maryland, resist secession while others, such as Missouri and Tennessee, show division and caution.
President-elect Abraham Lincoln leaves Springfield for a quick visit with his stepmother and family in Coles County, Illinois.
President James Buchanan signs a bill into law making “Bleeding Kansas” the 34th state of the Union.
Delegates to the Louisiana State Convention at Baton Rouge vote 113 to 17 to become the sixth state to secede from the Union.