Charleston, South Carolina, holds a significant place in American history as the site where the Civil War began.

In April 1861, the conflict erupted when Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter, a Union-held fort in Charleston Harbor. This event marked the official start of the Civil War, leading to a prolonged and devastating conflict between the North and South. Charleston's strategic location and its role as a major port city made it a focal point during the war. The city's history is deeply intertwined with the Civil War, and today, visitors can explore historical sites and museums that commemorate this pivotal moment in American history.