165 YEARS AGO: Confederates form a defense line across Kentucky while Federals open recruitment efforts, thereby ensuring that turmoil in the state will continue.
Tag: Beriah Magoffin
The Invaders Must Be Expelled
165 YEARS AGO: The Unionist Kentucky legislature demands that Confederates leave the state, but Leonidas Polk refuses unless the Federals do the same.
The End of Neutral Kentucky
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Kentucky’s neutrality, which had been in question for several months, officially ends when Confederate forces enter the state and occupy the town of Columbus.
Threatening Kentucky’s Neutrality
165 YEARS AGO: Tensions escalate as Union camps challenge the supposed neutrality of Kentucky. This leads to growing conflict between Unionists and secessionists.
Neutral Kentucky Leans North
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Pro-Confederate Kentuckians boycott an election that results in Unionist candidates winning seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Tentative Neutrality in Kentucky and Delaware
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.