The Confederacy, officially known as the Confederate States of America, was a group of eleven southern states that seceded from the United States between 1860 and 1861. These states formed their own government in response to tensions over issues like slavery and states' rights. The Confederacy existed during the American Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865. The Confederacy was led by President Jefferson Davis and had its capital in Richmond, Virginia. The conflict between the Confederacy and the Union resulted in significant battles and loss of life. Ultimately, the Confederacy was defeated, leading to the restoration of the Union and the abolition of slavery.