Which states joined the Union during the Civil War?
The American Civil War, which raged from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal period in the history of the United States. During this tumultuous time, the Union expanded its boundaries as several states were admitted to the Union. This article explores the states that joined the Union during the Civil War and their significance in the context of the conflict.
The Civil War was a pivotal moment in American history, and the admission of new states into the Union played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the time. In this article, we will delve into the states that joined the Union during the Civil War and their impact on the conflict.
Missouri
Missouri was admitted to the Union on August 10, 1821, as the 24th state. However, during the Civil War, it became a battleground between the North and the South. Initially, Missouri was a slave state, but it remained in the Union after the war began. This decision was influenced by the fact that a significant portion of the state’s population was against secession. In 1864, Missouri was readmitted to the Union, solidifying its position as a border state.
Arkansas
Arkansas was admitted to the Union on June 15, 1836, as the 25th state. The state’s admission was a controversial one, as it was a slave state. During the Civil War, Arkansas was one of the first states to secede from the Union, joining the Confederate States of America on June 18, 1861. However, after the war, Arkansas was readmitted to the Union on June 22, 1868.
North Carolina
North Carolina was admitted to the Union on November 21, 1789, as the 12th state. The state played a crucial role in the Civil War, as it was one of the first states to secede from the Union. North Carolina officially joined the Confederate States of America on May 20, 1861. After the war, North Carolina was readmitted to the Union on July 4, 1868.
Virginia
Virginia was admitted to the Union on June 25, 1788, as the 10th state. The state’s admission was a significant event, as it was one of the original 13 colonies. During the Civil War, Virginia was a key battleground and played a crucial role in the conflict. The state seceded from the Union on April 17, 1861, and joined the Confederate States of America. Virginia was readmitted to the Union on January 26, 1870.
West Virginia
West Virginia was admitted to the Union on June 20, 1863, as the 35th state. The state’s admission was a direct result of the Civil War. In 1861, the western counties of Virginia voted to secede from the state and form a new state, West Virginia. The state was admitted to the Union as a result of the Union victory at the Battle of Bull Run and the subsequent secession of Virginia.
In conclusion, the Civil War was a transformative period in American history, and the admission of new states into the Union played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the time. The states mentioned in this article – Missouri, Arkansas, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia – all had unique roles in the Civil War and their admission to the Union had a lasting impact on the nation’s history.
