Why Washington Was Admitted to the Union Later than Oregon: Population and Resources
Introduction
The admission of Washington as the 42nd state of the Union on November 11, 1889, marked a significant milestone in American history. This admission came nearly 30 years after Oregon’s statehood in 1859, a stark contrast that can largely be attributed to differences in resources and population. Understanding these factors provides valuable insights into the historical context and development of both states.
The Admittance Timeline
On February 14, 1859, Oregon officially became the 33rd state of the United States. The admission of Washington, which did not occur until almost three decades later, on November 11, 1889, as the 42nd state, reflects the distinct nature of these regions during their respective foundational periods.
Population and Growth: A Comparative Analysis
The disparity in population rates between Oregon and what is now Washington in the early to mid-19th century was a critical factor in the timing of their statehood. The 1860 census revealed that Oregon had a significantly larger population of citizens, totaling around 70,500 compared to Washington, which had a much smaller population. This demographic difference not only highlighted the area's less developed state but also underscored the pressing need for Oregon to establish its own state government and representation in Congress.
Why Washington Had a Harder Time
Geographical Factors: Washington’s geographical makeup posed significant challenges that slowed its path to statehood. The area was primarily covered in dense forests, which required extensive clearing to create suitable farmland. In contrast, Oregon had the advantage of the fertile Willamette Valley, a rich agricultural region that drew settlers and provided a strong foundation for early economic growth.
Early settlers ventured to Oregon for the rich farmland in the Willamette Valley. This valuable resource attracted a larger influx of settlers, fostering a more significant base of population and supporting the groundwork necessary for a more rapid process of statehood. The fertile lands provided by the Willamette Valley not only attracted settlers but also supported robust agricultural output, aiding in the region's development and population growth.
On the other hand, Washington’s forested landscape required substantial and time-consuming efforts to clear and convert into arable land. The dense forests and challenging terrain made the area less suitable for agricultural development, thus delaying settlement and population growth. This slower development meant that the region was less ready for the responsibilities and representation that come with statehood.
Economic and Political Conditions
Resource Availability: The availability of resources was another key factor in the admission timeline of both states. Oregon’s fertile lands and rich resources, particularly in the Willamette Valley, attracted a thriving economy and population. The Willamette Valley became a hub for agriculture, contributing significantly to the state's economic growth, and its residents’ numbers grew quickly, supporting the push for statehood.
In contrast, Washington’s landscape, while equally beautiful, was less hospitable to immediate economic development. The vast forests and rugged terrain demanded massive efforts in land clearance before any significant agricultural or economic activities could take place. These efforts required more extensive planning and organization, leading to a slower rate of development and settlement, and hence, a later date for statehood.
Political Considerations: The political climate of the time also played a role in the timing of admission. States needed to meet certain requirements, including a minimum population and organized government. These conditions were more readily met in Oregon, given its established agricultural base and growing population, allowing it to seek and achieve statehood more swiftly.
Conclusion
In summary, the admission of Washington to the Union in 1889, following Oregon’s admission in 1859, was a result of several factors. The geographical differences, specifically the rich farmland available in the Willamette Valley in Oregon, and the densely forested terrain in Washington, significantly impacted the respective timelines of statehood for both states. Oregon’s advantages in terms of population, resources, and economic development catalyzed its admission, while Washington faced challenges that delayed its path to statehood.