ContextApril 12, 1861
The Civil War begins at Fort Sumter
The war that will end slavery opens at Charleston Harbor.
The web
Connections to other moments, systems, and investigations — the links rarely drawn together.
- led to (incoming)·EventDred Scott v. Sandford
By denying Black citizenship and nationalizing slavery, the 1857 ruling inflamed sectional conflict and pushed the nation toward war.