OTD 165 YEARS AGO: Jefferson Davis responds to allegations that he hindered the Confederate army’s ability to march on Washington after Bull Run.
Tag: Jefferson Davis
Military Life in Its Most Depressing Form
165 YEARS AGO: News of the previous day’s Confederate victory at Bull Run prompts celebrations in the South and depression in the North. An influential New York publisher writes a desperate letter to President Lincoln asking him to consider seeking peace with the South.
Naval Operations Along the Coast and at Sea
165 YEARS AGO: The C.S.S. Sumter completes her first raid on U.S. shipping, Federals strengthen their blockade, and a Federal crew takes on Confederate privateers.
The Confederate Capital Relocation
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: The Provisional Confederate Congress votes to adjourn after approving the relocation of the national capital from Montgomery, Ala., to Richmond, Va. President Jefferson Davis had initially opposed the move, but with significant support from Virginians and military considerations, the transfer is approved.
Now Let the Sword Do the Work
165 YEARS AGO: The Confederacy issues a declaration of war against the U.S. The new government authorizes military enlistments and limits trade with the North. Leaders also take steps to prepare for conflict, while pundits weigh the chances for Confederate independence.
All We Ask is to be Let Alone
OTD 165 YEARS AGO: In a special message to the Provisional Confederate Congress, President Jefferson Davis expresses optimism about Confederate independence. Davis also condemns the Lincoln administration’s declaration of war against the Confederacy.