Discovering the National Archives is a fascinating journey through history. Here's a look at Abraham Lincoln's nomination of William Seward to be Secretary of State in 1861, as well as a photo of Seward taken by Matthew Brady.

Take a ground level perspective of life in Washington City in the days after the fall of Fort Sumter. Read about the panic that spread, the Confederate response and the harsh words for President Lincoln and his cabinet. See photos from the era to get a better feel for living in Washington in 1861.