August 1863

Saturday 08:

American Civil War: Following his defeat in the Battle of Gettysburg, General Robert E. Lee sends a letter of resignation to Confederate President Jefferson Davis (Davis will refuse the request upon receipt).

Saturday 15:

The Satsuma war begins between the Satsuma clan and Great Britain (Traditional Japanese date: July 2, 1863).

Monday 17:

American Civil War: In Charleston, South Carolina, Union batteries and ships bombard Confederate-held Fort Sumter. Bombardment will not end until December 31, 1863.

Friday 21:

Lawrence, Kansas is destroyed by Confederate guerillas Quantrill's Raiders in the Lawrence Massacre.