The Civil War Begins at Fort Sumter — Reading Comprehension

The Civil War began on April 12, 1861, at Fort Sumter in South Carolina. The United States was divided over the issue of slavery. Some states in the South wanted to leave the Union. They formed their own country called the Confederate States of America.

Fort Sumter was a fort in the harbor of Charleston, South Carolina. It was controlled by Union soldiers. President Abraham Lincoln wanted to keep the fort and supply the soldiers with food. The new Confederate government did not want Union soldiers on their land. Tension grew between the North and the South.

Early in April, Lincoln sent a ship with supplies to Fort Sumter. The Confederates saw this as a threat. On April 12, Confederate cannons began to fire on the fort. The loud noise could be heard for miles. Major Robert Anderson, the Union leader at Fort Sumter, tried to protect his men. He said, "We have not yet begun to fight." The battle lasted for 34 hours. Smoke filled the sky as cannonballs hit the fort's walls.

After the battle, Major Anderson had no choice. On April 13, he surrendered the fort to the Confederates. No one died during the fight, but it was the start of a long and hard war. People across the country heard about the battle. Many realized the nation was truly divided.

The fight at Fort Sumter caused more states to join the Confederacy. President Lincoln called for volunteers to defend the Union. The Civil War had begun. Brave soldiers on both sides prepared to fight for what they believed was right.

Interesting Fact: The only Union soldier who died at Fort Sumter was killed by an accident during the surrender ceremony, not the actual battle.

When did the Civil War begin?

Where is Fort Sumter located?

Who was President during the battle?

Why did the Confederates fire on Fort Sumter?

What happened after the battle?

What was the effect of the battle?

The Civil War started at Fort Sumter.

What does 'surrendered' mean?