The Senate takes up last-minute measures in hopes of finally reconciling North and South and restoring the Union.
Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
The Senate takes up last-minute measures in hopes of finally reconciling North and South and restoring the Union.
President-elect Abraham Lincoln engages in various meetings in Washington, visits the U.S. Capitol to hold discussions with key politicians, and finalizes his inaugural address. Lincoln also faces pressure to compromise on slavery, but he hold firm against allowing slavery to spread.
President-elect Abraham Lincoln reaches the capital after traveling through Baltimore in the middle of the night to avoid a possible assassination attempt. The move sparks laughter from his opponents and embarrassment from his supporters.
President-elect Abraham Lincoln’s journey to Washington includes stops in Cleveland and Buffalo, where he acknowledges enthusiastic crowds. Once in the New York capital of Albany, Lincoln receives the first warning that his trip to Washington may be more dangerous than expected.
As states like Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Missouri, and Arkansas grapple with unionist and secessionist sentiments, elections reveal a trend toward union support, despite pressures for secession. The Choctaw Nation also contemplates neutrality amid rising tensions.
President-elect Abraham Lincoln travels through Ohio and curiously refuses to acknowledge that a sectional crisis is taking place. Critics question his integrity in addressing the situation.