Jefferson Davis and the Confederacy

On February 10th, 1861, Jefferson Davis received a telegram at his plantation in Mississippi, informing him of his selection as the first president of the Confederate States of America. Despite his belief in state's rights, Davis was initially against the South's secession from the Union, feeling the region was unprepared to stand alone. He accepted the presidency as the will of his people, though he was personally distressed by the decision. Davis had spent years trying to prevent secession, but ultimately felt compelled to follow his state's decision to leave the Union.

On what date did Jefferson Davis receive the telegram informing him of his new role?

• January 1st, 1861

• February 10th, 1861

• March 4th, 1861

• April 12th, 1861

What position was Jefferson Davis chosen for according to the telegram?

• Secretary of State

• Governor of Mississippi

• President of the Confederate States of America

• Vice President of the United States

What was Jefferson Davis's stance on the South's secession from the Union?

• He was unaware of the secession

• He believed the South was not ready to secede

• He was indifferent

• He fully supported it

Why did Jefferson Davis accept the presidency of the Confederacy despite his reservations?

• He had no other job offers

• He was forced by the military

• He considered it the will of his people

• He wanted power

What did Jefferson Davis express in his last speech on the Senate floor?

• His desire to retire from politics

• His belief in a unified nation

• His excitement about the secession

• His obligation to follow his state's decision

How long did Jefferson Davis try to prevent the secession?

• 5 years

• 15 years

• 10 years

• 12 years