August 1861

Monday 05:

American Civil War: In order to help pay for the war effort, the United States government issues the first income tax as part of the Revenue Act of 1861 (3% of all incomes over US $800; rescinded in 1872).

Tuesday 06:

British annexation of Lagos, Nigeria.

Saturday 10:

The war enters Missouri when a band of raw Confederate troops defeat Union forces in the southwestern part of the state.

Tuesday 27:

Union forces attack Cape Hatteras, North Carolina