Battle of Fort Sumter: The First Shots Fired of the American Civil War

Q: When was the Battle of Fort Sumter?

The Battle of Fort Sumter was fought on 12-13 April 1861.

Q: Where was the Battle of Fort Sumter fought?

The Battle of Fort Sumter was fought in the harbor of Charleston, South Carolina, between the Union Fort Sumter and the surrounding Confederate artillery positions.

Q: When did the Battle of Fort Sumter begin and end?

The Battle of Fort Sumter began at 4:30 a.m. on 12 April 1861 when Confederate artillery opened fire on the Union-held fort. It ended at 2:30 p.m. on 13 April 1861 when Major Robert Anderson, commanding the fort, surrendered.

Q: Who commanded the opposing forces during the Battle of Fort Sumter?

During the Battle of Fort Sumter, the Union forces were commanded by Major Robert Anderson, and the Confederate forces were under General P. G. T. Beauregard.

Joshua J. Mark

Battle of Fort Sumter

The First Shots Fired of the American Civil War

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Definition

The Battle of Fort Sumter (12-13 April 1861), also known as the Attack on Fort Sumter and the Fall of Fort Sumter, was the opening engagement of the American Civil War. It began when Confederate Brigadier General P. G. T. Beauregard ordered his artillery, positioned around the island fort, to open fire after Union Major Robert Anderson had refused to surrender.

More about: Battle of Fort Sumter

Timeline

12 Apr 1861 - 13 Apr 1861
The Battle of Fort Sumter begins the American Civil War.

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