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Abraham Lincoln wins the electoral votes to become the 16th President of the United States.
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The Civil War begins with Confederate forces bombing Union forces at Fort Sumter in Charleston, SC.
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Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation which frees all slaves in Union territories, and orders the enlistment of Black soldiers.
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Congress issues the first draft in American history, requiring every man to serve in the army, unless they can pay a $300 fee.
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The 13th Amendment is passed by Congress abolishing slavery.
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Abraham Lincoln is shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theater and dies from his wounds.
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The Civil War officially ends.
