November 6, 1860 - April 12, 1861 (S01E06)

Lincoln has been elected President, and George makes an unexpected visit to Orry to apologize for his sister's extreme remarks during their last meeting. They manage to reconcile, with Orry finally agreeing to Brett's marriage to Billy. Meanwhile, Ashton is still driven by vengeance and attempts to have Billy assaulted in the street, but the plan fails. She then enlists her lover, Forbes LaMotte, Justin's nephew, to carry out the attack, planning it for the day of Billy and Brett's wedding. Madeline overhears their scheme and rushes to inform Orry, who insists she stay at Mont Royal and sever ties with Justin. Bent devises a plan to bypass any blockades on Southern ports. Orry heads to Pennsylvania to settle George's investment in the cotton mill, realizing the deep-seated animosity that has taken root. As Confederate forces assault Fort Sumter and war breaks out, George and Orry bid farewell, uncertain of what lies ahead for their families and their friendship