Secession Winter and the Founding of the Confederacy, January–February 1861

Background. The secession winter followed Lincoln's victory, driven by fears of northern abolitionist influence. Seven states, whose economies relied on enslaved labor, declared secession before Lincoln's inauguration. These actions culminated in the formation of the Confederate States, a republic unrecognized by foreign governments or the United States, aiming to safeguard slavery.

Secession Cascade. After South Carolina's 1860 vote, other Southern states considered secession in 1861. Seven Deep South states passed ordinances by February, while efforts failed elsewhere. The cascade included Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas, establishing the basis for the new confederation before the war began.

Montgomery Convention. Representatives from seceding states met in Montgomery, Alabama, on February 4, 1861. This convention established the Provisional Confederate Congress and adopted a constitution guaranteeing states' rights. Montgomery served as the capital until May 1861, marking the formal organization of the Confederate government.

Confederate Formation. The Confederate States of America were formally formed on February 8, 1861, by the seceded states. The Provisional Congress established a volunteer army and granted military authority to the newly chosen president. This period defined the political structure of the Confederacy prior to the military conflict.