The Journey of Vermont: From Independence to Statehood in the United States
The history of Vermont#39;s journey to join the United States is an intriguing tale of political maneuvering, territorial claims, and the early years of American statesmanship. While Vermont declared independence in 1777, its path to statehood was not an easy one, fraught with challenges and diplomatic struggles. In this article, we delve into the details of why Vermont decided to join the United States in 1791, exploring the political landscape of the time and the events that led to this historic decision.
Understanding Vermont’s Independence and Separation from the Thirteen Colonies
In the early years of the American Revolution, Vermont was caught in a unique political situation. While the thirteen colonies were negotiating with the British for their independence, Vermont temporarily signed a separate armistice with British officials. However, this arrangement was likely more of a tactic to end the war than a genuine attempt at reunification under British rule. Some leaders, including Ethan Allen, preferred Vermont to remain independent. Despite these initial aspirations, Vermont eventually declared its independence from both Britain and the United States in 1777. While it maintained this status until 1791, the desire for inclusion in the American Union was a persistent and influential force.
During the colonial era, New York asserted jurisdiction over what is now Vermont, leading to complex land disputes. Wealthy gentlemen in New York had purchased land tracts in Vermont, conflicting with earlier grants from the colonial government of New Hampshire. This created a situation where the New Hampshire settlers, with farms and homes in Vermont, faced the potential loss of their properties. The tension between these conflicting claims was significant and added to the complexity of Vermont’s political journey.
The Compromise and Path to Statehood
In 1790, a compromise was reached between Vermont and New York. Vermont would reimburse the New York investors, giving them a fraction of what they believed was due. In exchange, New York would relinquish its claims to Vermont should Congress admit the territory as a state. This compromise set the stage for Vermont’s path to statehood. In January 1791, a convention in Vermont voted to petition Congress for admission. Congress acted promptly, and in March 1791, Vermont became the 14th state of the United States.
Why Did Vermont Opt for Statehood?
Several factors contributed to Vermont’s decision to seek statehood:
Geographic and Cultural Affinity: Many early settlers in Vermont were from the new United States, particularly Connecticut. Groups like the Green Mountain Boys, well-known for their military prowess, consisted largely of settlers from Connecticut and were led by figures like Ethan Allen, who was originally from that state. National Identity: Vermont’s early years as an independent republic were marked by a strong sense of national identity. The founding groups and their leaders saw Vermont as an integral part of the broader American identity rather than as an entity to be separated.These factors, combined with the practicalities of maintaining a sustainable government and economy, led Vermont to join the Union in 1791.
Further Reading and Conclusion
For a more detailed exploration of Vermont’s journey from independence to statehood, Robert Mello’s book, Moses Robinson and the Founding of Vermont, offers a rich and engaging account. This book provides a nuanced understanding of the political, social, and economic factors that influenced Vermont’s decision to join the United States.
While Vermont’s path to statehood was challenging, it exemplifies the complex interplay between individual sovereignty and national unity in the fledgling American nation. The story of Vermont is one of perseverance and the realization of a dream, showcasing the ideal of inclusion that forms the foundation of the United States of America.