Jefferson Davis Selected as Provisional President
February 10th, 1861
February 10th, 1861

How Long Ago?
164 years, 1 month, 5 days ago
Location
Montgomery, Alabama, USA
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
American Civil War
People
- Jefferson Davis
Links & References
Tags
Jefferson Davis Selected as Provisional President
Jefferson Davis was notified by telegraph that he had been chosen as the provisional president of the Confederate States of America. This decision came during a period of increasing tensions following the secession of several Southern states from the Union. Davis, a former U.S. Senator and Secretary of War, accepted the role with the expectation of leading the new Confederacy through its initial challenges.
Jefferson Davis appointed provisional president.
Decision made via telegraph communication.
Selection crucial for Confederate governance.
Sets precedent for Confederate political structure.
What Happened?
Jefferson Davis, who had previously served as a U.S. Senator and Secretary of War, was chosen as the provisional president of the Confederate States of America through a telegraphic notification. The selection followed the secession of several Southern states from the Union, a move that was becoming increasingly contentious in American politics. This new government was formed in response to the looming threat of Northern domination, as many Southern leaders believed that their rights and way of life were under siege.
The provisional congress of the Confederacy convened in Montgomery, Alabama, where delegates from the seceded states gathered to deliberate on governance and leadership. Davis was seen as a unifying figure capable of rallying the Southern states in the face of external threats. His military background and political experience were viewed as assets that would benefit the fledgling nation.
Davis's acceptance of the presidency on this day set the course for the governance of the Confederacy during its early critical months, as tensions mounted into what would ultimately erupt into the American Civil War. This choice reflected not only the desires of Southern leaders but also the challenges that would confront the Confederacy in terms of military, economic, and social policy.
Why Does it Matter?
The selection of Jefferson Davis as the provisional president of the Confederate States marks a significant point in the lead-up to the American Civil War. His leadership would shape the policies and strategies of the Confederacy throughout the war. This decision illustrates the divide in American society at the time and the establishment of a separate governmental entity that would challenge the authority of the United States.
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