Sumter

/ˈsʌmtər/ noun

Definition

A place name, most famously Fort Sumter where the American Civil War began. Also refers to locations named after General Thomas Sumter.

Etymology

Named after Thomas Sumter, American Revolutionary War general known as the 'Fighting Gamecock'. His surname likely derives from Middle English 'sumpter' meaning 'pack horse driver'.

Kelly Says

Fort Sumter is a tiny artificial island that changed American history - the first shots of the Civil War were fired there in 1861. The irony is that this monument to division now serves as a symbol of national reconciliation.

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