February 9, 1861

The Convention of seceded states has unanimously adopted the Provisional Constitution of the Confederate States, which is mainly based on the United States Constitution but has several significant differences. The primary change was that the right to own slaves was assured.  Each state was acting “in its sovereign and independent character.” Cabinet officers were to have seats on the floors of both houses in order to require that executive methods are discussed there. Importation of slaves was prohibited. Line-item veto was permitted. Terms of President and Vice-President were six years, but they were barred from re-election. Fugitive slave clause was slightly strengthene and slavery in any territories of the Confederacy was protected.

After much discussion, Jefferson Davis of Mississippi was unanimously chosen as President, while Alexander Stephens was unanimously chosen Vice-President.

Join us at Bow Tie Tours for Philadelphia’s Best Historical Walking Tours. For those interested in the Civil War, come see our Gettysburg Tour, or ask us about our upcoming “Philadelphia and the Civil War” tour.  Our “Independence Tour Extraordinaire” includes tickets to Independence Hall, as well as numerous other sites, such as 2nd National Bank, Graff House, Carpenter Hall, and Christ Church. If you are interested in learning about George Washington, join us for our Valley Forge Tour. The true history buffs will want to contact us about taking part in our American History Vacation Packages.