The Civil War News & Views Open Discussion Forum

February 28, 1861

On this date 150 years ago, Missouri held a State Convention in order to debate secession. North Carolina came out in favor of the Union at its election concerning the possibility of a State Convention; secessionists garnered 46,409 votes in favor of holding a convention, those against such an assembly tallied 46,603.

The stalemate at Fort Sumter continued,with Major Robert Anderson staying in nearly constant communication with Washington. States that had seceded and formed the Confederacy grew increasingly more willing to confirm their independent status. With Lincoln's inauguration only days away, the mood in Washington was expectant but subdued; there was little real action as the incoming administration awaited the beginning of their tenure. However, relations between the North and South were deteriorating making war more likely.