Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
The Florida State Convention considers secession at Tallahassee while Federal troops struggle to maintain a foothold in Pensacola Harbor.
Delegates to the Mississippi State Convention vote 84 to 15 in favor of seceding from the Union.
The merchant vessel Star of the West arrives at Charleston Harbor to relieve the Federal garrison at Fort Sumter. But the South Carolinians have other ideas.
Abraham Lincoln meets with a prominent Republican and receives a recommendation about another regarding cabinet appointments.
Americans observe a day of reflection in hopes that it may inspire stronger efforts at compromise between North and South.
The Senate fails to adopt John J. Crittenden’s compromise plan, prompting more last-ditch efforts at conciliation.