An unarmed merchant ship Star of the West, carrying supplies to Fort Sumter, is fired upon by shore batteries near the fort. Union blockade of Southern ports begins. Union troops occupy Newport News and Harper's Ferry. President Lincoln tells special session of Congress of steps being taken in the conflict and requests additional powers. Congress calls for enlistment of 500,000 volunteers.
Civil War continues . . .
Homestead Act passes. President Lincoln signs bill abolishing slavery. Congress passes anti-polygamy act. Civil War continues. . . Emancipation Proclamation is issued formally by Abraham Lincoln.