The battle influenced foreign perceptions of the Civil War in that they supported the Confederacy.

The conflict at Fort Sumter had a profound effect on how foreign nations perceived the Civil War, prompting many to support the Confederacy. European countries, particularly Britain and France, saw the Confederacy as a possible counterweight to the industrial strength of the North and were attracted to its cotton production, which was essential for their textile industries. This economic interest generated sympathy for the Southern cause, resulting in a complicated diplomatic situation. The Confederacy's initial military actions, including the assault on Fort Sumter, sparked conversations in Europe about the possibility of recognizing the South as a legitimate entity, ultimately influencing the dynamics of international relations throughout the Civil War.