Slavery Divide Triggers America’s Civil War
![A lithograph of the Battle of Gettysburg published by Currier & Ives in 1863](https://www.onthisday.com/images/articles/battle-of-gettysburg.jpg)
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Historical Events
- South Carolina General Assembly votes 169-0 to secede from the United States, declaring itself an "independent commonwealth". Is quickly followed by other Southern states triggering the American Civil War.
Famous Birthdays
- Dan Leno [George Wild Galvin], English comedian and stage actor, born in Somers Town, London (d. 1904)
About December 20, 1860
Calendar: Gregorian
Day of the Week: Thursday
How Long Ago? 163 years, 7 months and 13 days
Leap Year: Yes
Star Sign: Sagittarius