The Historical Significance of Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is located in Charleston harbor and is where the American Civil War started on April 12, 1861. At that time, the fort was garrisoned by federal troops, but after a bombardment that lasted 34 hours, they surrendered to the Confederates. The fort was then occupied by Confederate forces until they abandoned it as the Union army advanced south. Today, Fort Sumter is a national monument and is open to visitors.