What Happened This Year 1861
Historical Events from This Year 1861
Kentucky's Secession Ordinance Filed
On this date, the Confederate government of Kentucky officially filed a secession ordinance, marking a significant political maneuver during the American Civil War. This action aimed to align Kentucky with the Confederate States of America amid the turmoil of the ongoing conflict. The secession fueled tensions between pro-Union and pro-Confederate factions within the state and set the stage for further military and political actions in the region.
Continue ReadingJudah Benjamin Becomes Confederate Secretary of War
Jefferson Davis appointed Judah Benjamin as Secretary of War, succeeding Leroy P. Walker. This change came as the Confederacy was seeking to strengthen its military organization during the early stages of the Civil War. Benjamin, a lawyer and politician, was expected to bring strategic insight to the position. His appointment was significant as the South faced various challenges on multiple fronts in the conflict.
Continue ReadingMissouri Declared 12th Confederate State
Missouri's status as the 12th Confederate state was solidified when the Confederate government acknowledged a rival state government in Missouri. This event drew attention to the ongoing struggles within Missouri, where loyalties to the Union and the Confederacy were deeply divided. The declaration aimed to strengthen Confederate claims in the border state and to attract support from local residents sympathetic to the Southern cause. As battles raged nearby, this pronouncement marked a significant moment in the civil war dynamics.
Continue ReadingConfederate Electors Elect Davis and Stephens
The Confederate States of America held an election where 109 electors unanimously selected Jefferson Davis as President and Alexander H. Stephens as Vice President. This decision was made in Montgomery, Alabama, the capital of the Confederacy, solidifying their leadership amidst the ongoing Civil War. The electors, representing various southern states, demonstrated a united front in their leadership choice as the Confederacy sought to establish its legitimacy as a separate nation.
Continue ReadingCongress Establishes Joint Committee on War Conduct
The U.S. Congress established the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War to investigate military operations during the American Civil War. Comprised of both Senate and House members, the committee was formed in response to setbacks in early Union military campaigns. Their primary goal was to ensure effective military leadership and accountability, amid growing public concerns about the war's progress.
Continue ReadingKentucky Declares Its Allegiance to the Confederacy
The Confederate States of America recognized Kentucky's proclamation as the 13th state of the Confederacy. This decision stemmed from a state government in Kentucky declaring its secession from the Union, underscoring the deepening divide over issues like slavery and state sovereignty. This development was witnessed amid the growing tensions and military operations associated with the American Civil War.
Continue ReadingNguyễn Trung Trực Sinks French Lorcha L'Esperance
Nguyễn Trung Trực, a prominent anti-colonial leader in southern Vietnam, orchestrated a bold attack that resulted in the sinking of the French lorcha ship L'Esperance. Flanked by local fishermen and guerrilla fighters on the Mekong River, Trực's forces utilized surprise tactics and their knowledge of the waterways. This strategic victory showcased Vietnamese resistance against French colonial powers and drew attention to the growing nationalist sentiments within the region. The sinking of the lorcha was a significant morale boost for the anti-colonial movement, highlighting the struggle faced by Vietnamese people under foreign domination.
Continue ReadingNavy Medal of Valor Established by Lincoln
Public Resolution 82 was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln, establishing a Navy Medal of Valor. The legislation aimed to honor acts of extraordinary heroism by Navy personnel, providing recognition and incentive for bravery in naval service. This was a crucial step in formalizing medals for military valor.
Continue ReadingU.S. Frees Confederate Envoys Mason and Slidell
The United States government freed Confederate diplomatic envoys James Murray Mason and John Slidell, easing tensions with the United Kingdom. These envoys had been captured by the U.S. Navy while attempting to reach Britain aboard the British ship USS Trent. Their release was seen as a step towards mending U.S.-UK relations during the American Civil War, as Britain had been considering support for the Confederacy.
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