Both plans will face a key test on Wednesday when John Boehner (R-Ohio) and Harry Reid (D-Nev.) plan to bring their proposals to the floors of their respective chambers for a vote.

FORBES: What to Buy As Dollar Sinks

In November, 1861, Seward faced his first test when Charles Wilkes, an intemperate Union captain, fired upon an unarmed British mail ship, the R.

NEWYORKER: Union Man