What Happened This Year 1861

Historical Events from This Year 1861

Politics & Government

Texas Secedes and Joins Confederacy

February 1st, 1861 164 years ago

Texas officially seceded from the United States after a convention held in Austin. This convention led to a decision where delegates voted overwhelmingly to leave the Union, primarily driven by tensions surrounding states' rights and slavery issues. Shortly thereafter, Texas joined the Confederate States of America, resulting in the formation of a new government aligned with pro-slavery interests.

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Politics & Government

Delegates Create Confederate States in Montgomery

February 4th, 1861 164 years ago

Delegates from six southern states gathered in Montgomery, Alabama, to begin drafting the constitution for the Confederate States of America. The meeting was a pivotal moment in the secessionist movement, reflecting the growing divide between the North and South over issues such as slavery and states' rights. The attendees aimed to establish a new government separate from the United States, highlighting their commitment to preserving their social and economic order.

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Politics & Government

Jefferson Davis Elected Provisional President of Confederacy

February 9th, 1861 164 years ago

On February 9, 1861, Jefferson Davis was elected as the Provisional President of the Confederate States of America by the Provisional Confederate Congress in Montgomery, Alabama. This inaugural election marked a significant moment in the formation of the Confederacy, reflecting the growing divide between the Northern and Southern states of America over issues such as states' rights and slavery. Davis, a former U.S. Senator from Mississippi and Secretary of War, was chosen for his political experience and leadership qualities, setting the stage for the Confederacy's government structure and military organization.

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Politics & Government

Jefferson Davis Selected as Provisional President

February 10th, 1861 164 years ago

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.

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Politics & Government

House Passes Resolution on Slavery Noninterference

February 11th, 1861 164 years ago

The United States House of Representatives approved a resolution that affirmed the government's commitment to noninterference with slavery in any state. This significant measure, passed unanimously, sought to ease tensions and promote unity amidst the rising sectional conflicts. Advocates believed it was essential for stability and to safeguard the Union. The resolution emphasized that the federal government would respect the rights of states regarding slavery, signaling a political compromise during a tumultuous era.

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Military & Warfare

Capitulation of the Fortress Gaeta

February 13th, 1861 164 years ago

The Siege of Gaeta concluded with the capitulation of the fortress, marking a crucial stage in the Italian unification process. Located in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, Gaeta became a focal point as the forces of Giuseppe Garibaldi clashed with those loyal to the Bourbon monarchy. The fortress's surrender signified not only a military victory for Garibaldi's forces but also a significant step towards the unification of Italy under a singular government. This event effectively ended the sovereignty of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, consolidating power in the hands of the new Italian state.

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Politics & Government

Victor Emmanuel II Proclaimed King of Italy

February 18th, 1861 164 years ago

Victor Emmanuel II was proclaimed King of Italy, symbolizing the culmination of the Italian unification movement. This momentous announcement took place in the city of Turin, where Emmanuel unified the various states of the Italian peninsula under his rule. His ascension followed decades of political and military efforts led by key figures such as Giuseppe Garibaldi and Count Camillo di Cavour, aimed at consolidating the many independent states into a single kingdom. The declaration marked both a significant change in territorial governance and a celebrated moment for national identity.

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Politics & Government

Jefferson Davis Inaugurated as Confederate President

February 18th, 1861 164 years ago

Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the provisional President of the Confederate States of America in Montgomery, Alabama. The inauguration occurred at the Alabama State Capitol, where Davis emphasized the need for unity among the Southern states. His address outlined the principles of the Confederacy, including states' rights and the preservation of slavery. Davis, a former U.S. senator and Secretary of War, was chosen to lead the new nation as it sought legitimacy and direction amid escalating tensions with the Union.

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Politics & Government

Founding of Mariehamn in Åland Islands

February 21st, 1861 164 years ago

Mariehamn was established as the capital of Åland Islands, marking a significant development in the region's administration. It was founded strategically between Sweden and Finland, reflecting the needs of maritime trade and governance. The foundation of the town provided a central location for political and economic activities and was essential for the local population. Moreover, the town’s development was pivotal in shaping the identity of the Åland Islands, leading to its eventual recognition in various international contexts.

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