ON THIS DAY

December 7, 1863 — During the American Civil War, 16 Confederates seized the Chesapeake, an American steamer, and diverted her to Saint John, N.B. The Confederates hoped to arm the ship and use her to attack Union ships. An American naval vessel arrived days later and seized the Chesapeake in British waters. These events violated British neutrality in the conflict and spurred a diplomatic incident that is commonly cited as a catalyst for Confederation.

To learn more, visit the Historica Canada website at www.historicacanada.ca