July 1861

Saturday 20:

American Civil War: The Congress of the Confederate States of America begins sitting in Richmond, Virginia.

Sunday 21:

At Manassas Junction, Virginia, the first major battle of the war begins (Confederate victory).

Thursday 25:

American Civil War: The Crittenden-Johnson Resolution is passed by the U.S. Congress stating that the war is being fought to preserve the Union and not to end slavery.

Friday 26:

American Civil War: George McClellan assumes command of the Army of the Potomac following a disastrous Union defeat at the First Battle of Bull Run.