
Introduction
Three Key Points
1.Civil War: One of the most impactful events that happened, not just in the 1860s but for the entire history of the United States, was the American Civil War. Fought from 1861 to 1865, the war was an existential crisis for the entire country.
It was a conflict born out of deep-seated ideological, economic, and social divides between the North and the South, primarily concerning the institution of slavery and the balance of power between federal and state governments. The war left an indelible mark on the United States, shaping its trajectory for generations to come.
At its core, the Civil War was a battle over the soul of America. The Southern states, reliant on agriculture and the labor of enslaved people, feared that the growing abolitionist movement in the North threatened their way of life. Meanwhile, the North, driven by industrialization and a burgeoning commitment to human rights, sought to curtail the spread of slavery and preserve the Union.
The spark that ignited the powder keg was the election of Abraham Lincoln as President in 1860. Lincoln’s victory, on a platform opposed to the expansion of slavery into new territories, prompted several Southern states to secede from the Union and form the Confederate States of America. With tensions running high, the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter in April 1861 marked the beginning of hostilities.
The war itself was brutal and bloody, with a staggering loss of life on both sides. Battles such as Gettysburg, Antietam, and Shiloh became synonymous with the carnage and sacrifice of the conflict. The introduction of new technologies, such as rifled muskets and ironclad warships, transformed warfare and intensified the scale of destruction.
Beyond the battlefield, the Civil War brought about profound social and economic upheaval. The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by Lincoln in 1863, declared enslaved people in Confederate-held territory to be free, fundamentally altering the nature of the conflict and paving the way for the eventual abolition of slavery nationwide with the passage of the 13th Amendment.
The war also catalyzed significant changes in the role of the federal government. Before the conflict, the balance of power between the states and the federal government was debated. The Civil War decisively tilted the scales in favor of a stronger central authority, as the Union government asserted its authority to preserve the nation’s integrity.
Moreover, the war had far-reaching economic consequences. The South, devastated by the conflict, experienced widespread destruction of infrastructure and loss of labor, plunging the region into poverty and economic stagnation for decades to come. Meanwhile, the North emerged as an industrial powerhouse, fueling its economic growth and solidifying its position as the dominant force in the country.
Perhaps most importantly, the Civil War laid bare the deep-seated divisions within American society and forced the nation to confront its original sin of slavery. While the war ended nearly 160 years ago, its legacy continues to reverberate through American culture and politics. The struggle for racial equality and civil rights, which gained momentum in the aftermath of the war, remains an ongoing journey fraught with challenges and setbacks.
In conclusion, the American Civil War was a defining moment in the nation’s history, leaving an indelible imprint on its social, political, and economic landscape. It reshaped the United States, bringing about the end of slavery, strengthening the federal government, and setting the stage for the modern nation we know today. Yet, it also serves as a stark reminder of the cost of division and the imperative of unity in the face of adversity.
2. The United States Buys Alaska from Russia: The Alaska Purchase, also known as “Seward’s Folly” or “Seward’s Icebox,” was the acquisition of the territory of Alaska by the United States from the Russian Empire in 1867. Secretary of State William H. Seward negotiated the purchase for $7.2 million, which equates to about two cents per acre. At the time, the transaction was widely criticized and ridiculed as a wasteful expenditure of taxpayer money on what was perceived as a frozen, barren wilderness.
However, the Alaska Purchase would eventually prove to be a strategic and economic boon for the United States. The discovery of gold in the late 19th century and subsequent gold rushes attracted thousands of prospectors and settlers to the territory, leading to the development of towns and infrastructure. Additionally, Alaska’s vast reserves of natural resources, including timber, fish, and oil, would become increasingly valuable over time.
The acquisition of Alaska had a limited immediate impact on the American real estate industry, as the territory was sparsely populated and largely undeveloped. However, it did open new opportunities for land speculation and investment as settlers and entrepreneurs sought to capitalize on the territory’s resources and potential for economic growth.
In the decades following the Alaska Purchase, the real estate industry in Alaska experienced gradual growth and expansion. Homesteaders, miners, and settlers staked claims to land, establishing towns and communities across the territory. The development of infrastructure, such as railways and telegraph lines, further facilitated settlement and economic activity.
Moreover, the discovery of oil in Alaska in the 20th century transformed the territory into a major player in the energy industry. The construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System in the 1970s spurred further development and investment in the state’s real estate market, particularly in areas near oil fields and support facilities.
Overall, while the Alaska Purchase may have seemed like a dubious investment at the time, it ultimately proved to be a wise decision for the United States. The acquisition of Alaska not only expanded the nation’s territory but also created new opportunities for economic development and investment in the real estate industry.
3. New States and Territories: There were several new territories created from 1860 to 1869 and two new states were admitted into the union. Each territory and state brought unique resources, opportunities, and challenges, shaping the landscape of American expansion and settlement.
Colorado Territory was established in 1861, amidst the tumult of the Civil War. The territory’s creation was driven by the discovery of gold and silver deposits, attracting a wave of prospectors and settlers to the region. The mining industry spurred rapid development and urbanization, leading to the establishment of towns and infrastructure. Colorado’s admission as a state in 1876 further solidified its position as a hub for mining, agriculture, and trade, fueling demand for real estate and land speculation.
Nevada Territory emerged in 1861 too, spurred by the discovery of silver in the Comstock Lode. The mining boom transformed Nevada’s economy and landscape, with towns like Virginia City experiencing rapid growth. Nevada’s admission to the Union in 1864, during the Civil War, was partly driven by political considerations, as the Union sought to secure additional support from western states. The state’s mineral wealth continued to attract settlers and investors, driving demand for real estate in mining regions.
Dakota Territory was established in 1861, encompassing the vast expanse of the Dakotas, parts of Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. The territory’s economy was largely driven by agriculture, particularly wheat farming on the fertile plains. The Dakota Territory will be divided into two before they are admitted into the union.
Arizona Territory was created in 1863, primarily as a strategic move to secure control over the territory’s resources and transportation routes during the Civil War. The territory’s economy was diverse, with mining, ranching, and agriculture playing significant roles.
Arizona will be eventually admitted as a state in 1912. Idaho Territory was established in 1863, spurred by the discovery of gold in the region. The territory’s economy diversified over time, with mining, agriculture, and lumber industries driving growth.
Montana Territory was created in 1864, fueled by the discovery of gold and silver deposits. The mining boom brought a surge of settlers and investment to the region, leading to the development of towns and infrastructure. Montana’s admission as a state in 1889 solidified its position as a center for mining, agriculture, and trade, driving demand for real estate and land development.
Wyoming Territory emerged in 1868, characterized by its vast open spaces and abundant natural resources. The territory’s economy revolved around cattle ranching, mining, and the burgeoning tourism industry. Wyoming’s admission as a state in 1890 further fueled growth and development, attracting settlers and investors to the region’s real estate market.
The admission of Nevada and Nebraska as states into the Union had significant implications for America and its real estate market. Nevada’s admission in 1864 bolstered the Union’s strength during the Civil War and paved the way for the state’s rapid growth and development fueled by its mineral wealth. Nebraska’s admission in 1867 marked the expansion of the Union into the Great Plains, opening new opportunities for settlement, agriculture, and real estate investment.
The creation and admission of territories and states during the 1860s played a crucial role in shaping America’s growth and development, driving demand for real estate and investment opportunities across the country. From the mining boomtowns of the West to the wheat fields of the Great Plains, each region brought its unique opportunities and challenges to the burgeoning real estate market, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s landscape and economy.
Headline Real Estate News Stories In 1860 –1869
The 1860s was a decade loaded with headlines. During the entire civil war, each week brought news about the conflict. The election of Abraham Lincoln as president was news that pushed some of the southern states to finally leave the union. His death at the end of the war was devastating news to a country that was just starting to heal.
Another event during this period that is worth remembering was The Long Walk of the Navajo, occurring in 1864, which was a tragic chapter in Native American history. The United States government forcibly relocated over 8,000 Navajo people from their ancestral lands in Arizona and New Mexico to Bosque Redondo, a desolate reservation in eastern New Mexico. This forced march spanned over 300 miles and resulted in immense suffering, with many Navajo dying from starvation, exposure, and disease. Despite the hardships endured, the Navajo persevered, eventually negotiating the return to their homeland in 1868. The Long Walk remains a poignant reminder of the resilience and endurance of the Navajo people.
What Historic Real Estate Events Shaped 1860 -1869
The events that happened in the 1860s, particularly the Civil War, were the result of decisions and other events that happened in the past. The decision to use slaves in the colonies was made by colonists, but its effects were hundreds of years later. The move to limit the spread of slavery in the new country also had its impact.
The Missouri Compromise of 1820 which sought a balance between the slaveholding and the slave-free states just delayed the inevitable conflict which started to simmer during the struggle known as the Bleeding Kansas and John Brown’s dramatic but doomed display of defiance in Harper’s Ferry.
Economic Factors, Supply, and Demand
Though there was an ongoing war, the economy was not put on hold in the country. Several significant economic milestones took place during the decade.
The New England Shoemakers Strike of 1860, which occurred primarily in Lynn, Massachusetts, was a significant labor dispute in the burgeoning industrial economy of the United States. It highlighted the growing tensions between labor and capital, particularly in the manufacturing sector. The strike led to disruptions in shoe production, affecting supply and demand dynamics in the economy. This disruption could have impacted the real estate market in the affected areas, as uncertainty in the economy often leads to cautious investment behavior.
Additionally, the strike brought attention to labor rights and working conditions, eventually contributing to the broader labor movement that would shape labor laws and regulations in the years to come.
The National Banking Act of 1863 was a crucial piece of legislation aimed at creating a national banking system and stabilizing the financial system during the Civil War.
The establishment of a national banking system provided more uniformity and stability to the financial sector, which could have positively impacted investor confidence and real estate markets. Increased stability in the banking system often translates to greater access to credit and financing for real estate transactions.
The Act also laid the groundwork for a more centralized monetary policy, which could influence interest rates and borrowing costs, subsequently affecting real estate investment and development.
The Coinage Act of 1864 standardized the design and composition of coins in the United States, particularly introducing the two-cent coin and the introduction of the phrase “In God We Trust” on coinage.
While the direct impact on the real estate market might have been minimal compared to other economic events, the Coinage Act contributed to stabilizing the monetary system and reinforcing trust in the currency. This stability is essential for the functioning of any economy and indirectly supports real estate transactions and investment.
The Black Friday of 1869 was a financial panic triggered by the efforts to corner the gold market by speculators, including Jay Gould and James Fisk.
This event resulted in a significant collapse in the stock market and financial instability, leading to a ripple effect throughout the economy. Real estate markets were not immune to the panic, as investors and businesses faced liquidity crises and market uncertainty.
The Black Friday panic underscored the need for financial regulation and oversight, leading to reforms that aimed to prevent such speculative bubbles in the future. These reforms would have helped restore confidence in the financial system, indirectly benefiting the real estate market.
Government Policies and Interventions
In 1862, President Lincoln signed the Homestead Act into law. The act stands as one of the most influential pieces of legislation in American history, particularly in its impact on the nation’s real estate landscape. Enacted during a time of rapid westward expansion, the Homestead Act fundamentally altered the accessibility and distribution of land, profoundly shaping settlement patterns, economic development, and the real estate market.
The Homestead Act provided an unprecedented opportunity for millions of Americans to acquire land. Under the Act, any U.S. citizen, or intended citizen, could claim up to 160 acres (about twice the area of a large shopping mall) of federal land, with the promise of eventual ownership after meeting certain requirements, such as living on the land and making improvements over a specified period.
This accessibility to land opened vast expanses of previously untamed wilderness for settlement. As a result, it stimulated migration from the crowded eastern states to the western territories, fueling a surge in population growth and settlement in areas such as the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains.
The Homestead Act had a profound impact on the real estate market, both locally and nationally. The influx of settlers seeking land created a surge in demand for real estate services, including land surveys, legal assistance for land claims, and land sales.
Real estate speculation flourished as investors sought to capitalize on the rising value of land in newly settled areas. The Act also facilitated the growth of land speculation companies, which acquired large tracts of land to sell to settlers at a profit.
Moreover, the Act spurred the development of towns and communities as settlers established homesteads and built infrastructure to support agricultural and economic activities. This led to the rise of local real estate markets and property values in areas with high demand for land.
The Homestead Act played a pivotal role in driving economic development across the western frontier. By encouraging settlement and agricultural development, it transformed vast expanses of wilderness into productive farmland, fostering the growth of agricultural economies in regions previously considered inhospitable.
The Act also stimulated the expansion of transportation networks, such as railroads, as settlers and businesses sought to access and transport agricultural products to eastern markets. This infrastructure development further enhanced the value of real estate in areas with improved access to markets and transportation hubs.
The Homestead Act’s legacy is profound and enduring. It contributed to the fulfillment of the American Dream for millions of settlers, who gained landownership and economic independence through homesteading.
The Act also had significant social and cultural implications, shaping the identity of the American West as a land of opportunity and adventure. The spirit of homesteading and the pioneer ethos remain ingrained in the national psyche, influencing attitudes towards landownership and property rights.
The Homestead Act would be eventually repealed in 1976 but its impact on American real estate endures. Many families still hold land granted under the Act, and its principles of land distribution and access continue to influence land policy and management in the United States.
Demographic Factors
The Census of 1860 provides a comprehensive snapshot of the nation’s demographic landscape on the brink of the Civil War. This decennial enumeration, conducted amidst mounting tensions between North and South, yielded invaluable insights into population distribution, racial composition, and economic trends across the United States.
For real estate, the Census of 1860 held profound significance. It offered invaluable data for property assessment, urban planning, and investment decisions. The census provided detailed information on land ownership, property values, and patterns of settlement, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding land acquisition, development, and taxation.
Moreover, the census shed light on the intricate relationship between demographics and real estate markets. Analysis of population growth, migration patterns, and urbanization trends allowed investors and developers to identify emerging markets and anticipate future demand for housing and commercial properties.
Furthermore, the Census of 1860 played a crucial role in shaping government policies related to land distribution and infrastructure development. By providing a comprehensive overview of population trends and geographic distribution, it informed decisions regarding the allocation of resources for public works projects such as roads, railways, and canals, which in turn influenced property values and accessibility.
The Census of 1860 served as a cornerstone for understanding the dynamics of the American real estate market during a pivotal period in the nation’s history, offering valuable insights that continue to inform strategic decision-making in the field of property development and investment.
Societal Preferences and Trends
The California Anti-Coolie Act of 1862 mirrored the prevailing anti-Chinese sentiment during the mid-19th century in the United States, fueled by fears of economic competition and racial prejudice. The influx of Chinese immigrants, drawn by the Gold Rush and subsequent labor demands, sparked tensions among the predominantly white population. The Act aimed to regulate Chinese immigrant labor by imposing taxes on employers who hired them, making it economically disadvantageous to do so.
This legislation, alongside broader discriminatory practices, reflected a society’s desire to maintain racial and economic dominance. Chinese immigrants faced widespread discrimination, violence, and legal barriers, including restrictions on immigration and denial of citizenship rights. The Act exemplified systemic racism and xenophobia, contributing to the marginalization and exclusion of Chinese immigrants from mainstream society. It underscores a dark chapter in American history, highlighting the enduring struggle against racial inequality and injustice faced by marginalized communities. Despite such adversity, it would take years of activism for Chinese Americans and other immigrant groups to secure equal rights and recognition in American society.
Technological Innovations
In 1863 Alanson Crane received a patent for the first fire extinguisher in Virginia. This revolutionized building safety. It offered a portable means to combat fires, drastically reducing property damage and saving lives. Equipping structures with these devices provided immediate defense against flames, especially in commercial and industrial settings where the risk was high.
Fire extinguishers spurred advancements in building design and safety regulations, becoming a mandatory feature in many buildings. Their evolution brought about sophisticated features like automatic activation and specialized fire-suppressing agents. Overall, Crane’s invention marked a pivotal moment, making buildings safer and significantly reducing the impact of fires.
Cultural Factors
Although the country was torn by conflict during the 1860s, some cultural events happened then too. Samuel Clemens first used the pen name Mark Twain in a Virginia City newspaper, the Territorial Enterprise. He would start to gain prominence as a writer and humorist. There were also plenty of institutions of higher learning that were founded during this period.
Environmental Factors
The publication of “Man and Nature” in 1864 by George Perkins Marsh marked a pivotal moment in environmental thought. Marsh’s work served as a foundational text in the emerging field of conservation, emphasizing humanity’s profound impact on the natural world. By examining the consequences of unchecked human activity, Marsh highlighted the importance of responsible stewardship of the environment. His insights laid the groundwork for modern environmentalism, influencing subsequent generations of conservationists, policymakers, and scholars. “Man and Nature” sparked crucial debates about the balance between human progress and environmental preservation, shaping attitudes and policies towards sustainable development and ecological conservation.
Transportation and Infrastructure
The signing into law of the Pacific Railway Acts in 1862 and 1864, authorizing the construction of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States, marked a significant milestone in American history. These acts were a response to the growing need for efficient transportation and communication across the vast expanse of the country, especially in the wake of westward expansion and the increasing demand for connectivity between the eastern and western regions.
Groundbreaking in Sacramento, California, in 1863 symbolized the beginning of an ambitious endeavor that would profoundly shape the nation’s economic, social, and political landscape. The construction of the transcontinental railroad represented a triumph of engineering prowess, human labor, and national ambition. It was a testament to the American spirit of innovation, perseverance, and manifest destiny.
As construction progressed, thousands of workers, including immigrants, Civil War veterans, and Chinese laborers, toiled under harsh conditions to lay tracks across rugged terrain, spanning mountains, deserts, and plains. Their collective efforts transformed the physical geography of the American West, opening previously inaccessible regions to settlement, trade, and commerce.
The completion of the first transcontinental railroad in Promontory, Utah, in 1869 captured the nation’s imagination. The driving of the “golden spike” symbolized the unification of the East and West, connecting distant communities and fostering greater economic integration. It marked the dawn of a new era of mobility, as people, goods, and ideas could now traverse the continent in a fraction of the time it had previously taken.
The significance of these events extends far beyond mere infrastructure development. The transcontinental railroad facilitated the expansion of markets, facilitated the movement of people and goods, and accelerated the pace of industrialization. It stimulated economic growth, spurred urbanization, and catalyzed the development of industries such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing along its route.
Moreover, the transcontinental railroad had profound social and cultural implications. It facilitated the exchange of cultures, ideas, and technologies between East and West, contributing to the rich tapestry of American diversity. It also played a pivotal role in the displacement and marginalization of indigenous peoples, as well as the exploitation of laborers, particularly Chinese immigrants.
Closing This Capsule
The 1860s was a tragic and bloody decade for the United States but the wheel of progress continued to turn. Reconstruction started immediately and the end of the war brought out the Gilded Age.
For a deeper understanding and look into these topics check out these titles:
History of the American Civil War:
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“The Centennial History of the Civil War: The Coming Fury / Terrible Swift Sword / Never Call Retreat” by Bruce Catton