Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Maryland legislators reject secession as President Lincoln controversially suspends the writ of habeas corpus in areas surrounding the state.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Following President Lincoln’s call for troops, North Carolina, initially hesitant to secede, reacted strongly, with Governor Ellis condemning the proclamation as unconstitutional. Celebrations erupted in the state after Fort Sumter’s capture, leading to a secession convention. Other Southern states echoed North Carolina’s sentiments, pushing towards joining the Confederacy.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: The governor of Missouri asks Jefferson Davis to send him arms while Federals work in secret to secure the vital St. Louis arsenal.
The governor of Kentucky rejects President Lincoln’s request for troops, emphasizing the state’s desire for neutrality. This sentiment is echoed by both Unionists and secessionists, fearing threats from either side. Tiny Delaware also seeks neutrality, with the governor unsure of his authority to raise militia for the Federal government.
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: After Virginia seceded from the Union, the governor mobilizes state militia to defend against an impending Federal invasion from Washington.
President Lincoln’s call for volunteers is enthusiastically answered but getting them to Washington is another matter. This leads to chaos in the capital, where fears of a Confederate attack heighten.