Secession and the Formation of the Confederacy

What happened

South Carolina became the first state to secede on December 20, 1860. By February 1, 1861, six more Deep South states had followed, and together they formed the Confederate States of America, choosing Jefferson Davis as president. Four more states seceded after the fighting began.

Why it matters

The secession of eleven states over the future of slavery created a rival government and made a war to preserve the Union all but inevitable.

Sources

• National Park Service. South Carolina Secession · Reputable source