Final answer:
Confederate forces opened fire on Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, beginning the Civil War. After a 33-hour bombardment and failing to put up a strong defense, Union forces surrendered Fort Sumter to General Beauregard on April 14.
Step-by-step explanation:
On the morning of April 12, 1861, Confederate shore batteries opened fire on Fort Sumter, which was located in Charleston's Harbor. This aggressive act marked the official start of the American Civil War. The Union forces stationed at Fort Sumter, which was under the command of Major Anderson, were subjected to a 33-hour-long bombardment by Confederate forces led by General Beauregard. Eventually, the beleaguered Union troops returned fire but were ultimately unable to mount an effective defense. The siege ended with Major Anderson surrendering Fort Sumter on April 14, following a relentless attack that the fort's limited supplies and small garrison could not withstand, leading to a Confederate victory and widespread celebrations in Charles.