The Real Cause of the U.S. Civil War

Steve Hurlbut to Abraham Lincoln, March 27, 1861


Page 14


should be from Norfolk into Eastern North

Carolina which would constitute that

port the market -- the great natural

advantages of Norfolk as a seaport would

draw that country to it.

In the hands of any but Virginians and

North Carolinians this would long since

have been done. There has been some at-

tempt at it, but the attempt itself is a

failure.


I have ascertained while at Charleston

from our only friend and our many

Enemies -- that this whole matter of Se-

cession could have been stopped in the bud,

by a prompt and gallant action on the part

of the late administration. If the Harbour

of Charleston had been seized and held

by a proper military & naval force -- the

rebellion would have died out, but our few

friends unsupported by the Government

dwindled gradually away and the cause

of disunion unchecked, Rebellion has as-

sumed the stature and dignity of Revolution

fulfilled and accomplished.

Treason was abetted by our own high

functionaries and every impediment

sedulously removed from its path.

[8401]








Hurlbut Letter Page 14