The Battle of Fort Sumter was a significant event in the lead up to the American Civil War. It was a key moment in the escalating tensions between the North and South and ultimately marked the beginning of the Civil War.
In early 1861, several southern states had already seceded from the Union in protest of the election of President Abraham Lincoln and to protect the institution of slavery. Tensions between the North and South were high, and both sides were preparing for conflict.
On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces began bombarding Fort Sumter, which was defended by federal troops under the command of Major Robert Anderson. The bombardment lasted for 34 hours and was one of the first major engagements of the Civil War.
Despite being heavily outnumbered and outgunned, the federal troops held out for several hours before finally surrendering. There were no casualties on either side during the bombardment, but several soldiers were injured and two killed during the surrender due to an accidental explosion.
Following the surrender of Fort Sumter, President Lincoln called for 75,000 troops to be mobilized to put down the rebellion. This action led to several more southern states seceding from the Union and joining the Confederacy. Today, Fort Sumter is a national monument and a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought in the Civil War.
References:
https://www.battlefields.org/learn/civil-war/battles/fort-sumter
