I was beginning to think that so many events were scripted that a player would not be able to be surprised when the American Civil War started (states joining the nation exactly when they did historically), but that's what happened at the start of my turn. On the previous turn, there was one rebel unit in Northern Virginia, I went to deal with that and on the next turn the war started (YES!, finally).
I thought that Lincoln wasn't elected until Nov 1860, took office in Jan 1861 and the Fort Sumter happened in March or April of 1861. Nonetheless, I was glad to be surprised.
Everything that Jim Burns foretold did occur. Increased militia units for both sides and zeroed out officer/conscripts.
I took an overview of the situation and the Union looks to be in pretty good shape. I have a much stronger presence in the West, a few ports I"m going to reinforce in the South and the border states situation looks to be in my favor. Because of the extra forces each side get, I could tell that it will still be a slog, but I am taking a deep breath (I was off work the last three days and start working again tonight).
No questions this time, just wanted to share my excitement with anyone!