American History Hit
The First 12 Days of the Civil War
Jan 6, 2025
Tony Sibler, author of 'Twelve Days: How the Union Nearly Lost Washington DC in the First Days of the Civil War', shares gripping insights into April 1861. He reveals how Washington D.C. was unprepared and vulnerable as Union forces retreated. The discussion uncovers the Confederacy's ambitions, the chaos in the capital, and the violent encounters faced by Union troops in Baltimore. Sibler highlights pivotal moments that shaped the early conflict, illustrating the precariousness of the Union's control over its capital in those critical early days.
35:00
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Quick takeaways
- Washington D.C. was dangerously undefended in April 1861, with only 1,200 local militia present amidst widespread panic.
- The contrasting military strategies of the Union and Confederacy showcased a significant disparity in preparedness and mobilization during early conflict.
Deep dives
The Vulnerability of Washington, D.C.
In April 1861, Washington, D.C. faced significant vulnerabilities, despite being the nation's capital. The city had a population of approximately 75,000, yet it was poorly defended, with only about 1,200 local militia and no substantial United States Army presence. The surrounding regions, Maryland and Virginia, were also filled with Southern sympathizers, increasing the city's precarious position. This vulnerability raised questions about why Confederate forces, despite their preparedness, did not seize the opportunity to capture the capital immediately after the surrender of Fort Sumter.
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