Jefferson Davis inaugurated provisional president of the Confederacy

Background. In February 1861, representatives from Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina convened in Montgomery to form the Confederate States. The Provisional Constitution was ratified on February 8, 1861, establishing a government based on United States principles. Montgomery served as the first capital until the seat of government moved to Richmond in May 1861.

Inauguration. Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as provisional president on February 18, 1861. The Provisional Constitution was signed by all present members at noon on this day. In his inaugural address, Davis asserted that the Confederate Constitution, which protected slavery in all territories, represented a return to the original founders' intent.

Political Context. Davis resigned from the U.S. Senate in 1861 following Mississippi's secession. He had previously served as a Senator from 1857 to 1861. His appointment as major general of Mississippi's army occurred in January 1861, shortly before his inauguration as provisional president.