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Fort Sumter National Monument33-star United States flag from Fort Sumter
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Fort Sumter National Monument
History & Culture
Fort Sumter National Monument commemorates defining moments in American history within a military continuum that spans more than a century and a half.

At Fort Moultrie, the first American victory over the British Navy in 1776 galvanized the patriots' cause for independence. Less than a century later, America's most tragic conflict ignited with the first shots of the Civil War at Fort Sumter.
Did You Know?  

Did You Know?
The palmetto tree has been a symbol of South Carolina since June 28, 1776 because the first Fort Moultrie was built of palmetto logs. The 9-1/2 hour battle of Sullivan's Island was the Revolutionary War's first decisive victory of American forces over the British Navy.

Last Updated: July 27, 2006 at 10:39 EST