Charleston, South Carolina is not only home to Lantana Recovery’s Charleston drug rehab, it is a place with a rich history. It was founded in 1670 and was the site of the first shots of the Civil War. Charleston has also been a major player in the American Revolution, the Civil Rights Movement, and more. Let’s take a look at some of the key moments in Charleston’s long and storied history.
Important Charleston Historical Events
Charleston’s Early Days
Charleston was founded in 1670 by English settlers. The city quickly became an important center of trade and commerce. In 1718, piracy was rampant in Charleston Harbor, and pirate Blackbeard even made his base there for a time. But by 1748, Charleston had become the fourth largest city in North America.
It was also during this time that Charleston became known for its grandeur and elegance. Wealthy planters built huge mansions and plantations along the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. Slaves were brought over from Africa to work on these plantations. And rice became one of the region’s main crops.
The American Revolution & The Civil War
Charleston played a significant role in both the American Revolution and the Civil War. In 1776, Charleston served as a staging ground for the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. This battle was a huge victory for the Americans and helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War.
Decades later, in 1861, Charleston was the site of the first shots of the Civil War when Confederate troops bombarded Fort Sumter. Charleston would see much fighting during the war years, but it would eventually fall to Union forces in 1865.
After the war, Reconstruction brought many changes to Charleston. African Americans were given political rights and slaves were freed. But despite these changes, life for most black residents remained difficult due to poverty and racism.
The Civil Rights Movement
Charleston played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement as well. In 1962, nine African American students attempted to desegregate an all-white school in nearby Summerville by staging a sit-in at the lunch counter of McCrory’s department store. This act of peaceful protest helped spark a nationwide movement to end racial discrimination.
And in 1965, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr visited Charleston to march with striking African American hospital workers. These workers were protesting for better wages and working conditions. Their successful strike led to improved conditions for hospital workers across America.
Concluding the Rich History of Charleston
Charlestons is rich with culture being established back in 1670+. It has gone through many pivotal moments such as The American Revolution, The Civil War, and even The Civil Rights Movement where Martin Luther King Jr once visited . Although it may not be one of Americas most talked about cities it is still filled will interesting facts from its unique founding story to being housing ground zero for some of Americas most important historical events . Located in Low country South Carolina if you find yourself near or visiting do not forget to explore all that Charlestons unique history has offer!
You might be wondering about the history of Greenville or the history of Columbia, South Carolina.
