[PeaRidge]

With regard to habeas corpus, both the United States and Confederate Constitutions only allowed for the suspension by the Congress of each nation. Lincoln unilaterally suspended it, while Davis sought permission through the constitutional process.

As to firing on Ft. Sumter, two South Carolina governors, three Peace Commissioners, members of his own cabinet, military leaders, numerous Senators, Northern newspapers, the Union garisson commander at Ft. Sumter, and the President of the Confederacy all warned Lincoln that attempting to forcefully enter Charleston Harbor would be an act of war.

When they saw the Federal Fleet approaching on the evening of the 11th, the Confederate command, already under orders to reduce the fort, later began firing. Lincoln rationalized the aggressive move as support of the troops. Davis and government knew it was a war effort to split the Confederacy.

[stainlessbanner]

Hi PeadRige - you beat me to it and did stated it more eloquently. Hats off.

[Non-Sequitur]

With regard to habeas corpus, both the United States and Confederate Constitutions only allowed for the suspension by the Congress of each nation.

"The Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it."

I don't see the part where it says only Congress can suspend it.