States That Stayed in the Union But Did Not Join the Confederacy: The Complexities Behind Their Decisions
The American Civil War was a tumultuous period filled with complex choices and dynamics. While some states chose to secede and join the Confederate states, others remained loyal to the Union. This article explores the reasons behind the decisions of several key states, including Maryland, Delaware, Kentucky, Missouri, and Virginia, opting to stay in the Union and not join the Confederacy.
States and Their Decisions
Missouri, Kentucky, Delaware, and Maryland were slaveholding states but did not join the rebellion. These states faced significant internal polarization, but ultimately chose to stay within the Union.
Missouri and Kentucky were particularly notable for their complex stance. Both states saw the formation of "government in exile" entities that had limited to no real influence. Missouri faced immediate military action, while Kentucky declared neutrality, allowing both Union and Confederate governments to operate in the state simultaneously. Similarly, both Delaware and Maryland also maintained Union loyalty despite the presence of secessionist elements.
Delaware and Maryland: A Struggle for Union Loyalty
Delaware and Maryland were two slave states that remained staunchly loyal to the Union and its Constitution. Delaware did not secede due to its inherently divided nature, while Maryland faced several attempts by the Confederacy to instigate a split. The United States was quick to act, using military force to ensure Maryland's loyalty.
The Role of Military Force in Maintaining Loyalty
On the day of the scheduled Maryland convention, federal troops intercepted the state's delegates. This action, witnessed by many, effectively silenced the Confederate secessionist efforts. Ensuring that no key figures were present at the convention was crucial to maintaining Union control. Although Maryland scheduled its convention and attracted regional debaters, it ultimately failed to achieve a quorum due to federal intervention.
The Case of Delaware
Delaware's loyalty to the Union was also tested, waiting for Maryland's action and never convening its own convention. This shows how critical the decisions of neighboring states were to the standing of other states within the Union.
Kentucky: A State of Neutrality
Kentucky took a unique path in attempting to stay neutral in the event of a conflict. This stance was partly due to its historical role and the significant investment it had in the Union. The state's legitimacy as a neutral entity was challenged, but its stance was crucial in maintaining a balance that prevented a full-scale secession.
The Kentuckian Convention and Future Outcomes
Kentucky's convention voted for neutrality, which was a bold move in the context of impending conflict. This decision allowed the state to continue contributing to the Union's war efforts, facing internal strife from both Union and Confederate factions.
The Complexity in Missouri
Missouri's situation was particularly intricate. Its pro-secession governor convened a state convention, but the pro-Union legislators boycotted. This led to a quorum failure, rendering the convention's resolutions invalid for many Missourians. A 'government in exile' was established in Texas, but it was thwarted by Union forces. In the end, Missouri's involvement in the Confederate cause was limited to representation in the Confederate Congress and military support.
Virginia: A Tragedy of Wasted Opportunities
Virginia's decision to join the Confederacy is often cited as a turning point in the Civil War. The state initially voted to remain in the Union, but secessionist delegates forced a redo of the vote. Faced with the prospect of being outvoted, a speaker drew a pistol and declared secession. This tragic decision led to four years of bloody conflict in Virginia, highlighting the dire consequences of such a decision.
Forced Concessions and Re-Enntry into the Union
Just before Virginia's final vote, Abraham Lincoln took a firm line, refusing any concessions to the seceded states. The newly formed Confederacy then started the bombardment of Fort Sumter, attempting to shock the remaining states into joining. However, it only gained four additional states.
Conclusion
The decisions of Maryland, Delaware, Kentucky, Missouri, and Virginia to remain in the Union and not join the Confederacy were driven by a complex mix of political, economic, and social factors. The varying outcomes of these states highlight the nuanced nature of the American Civil War and the significant decisions that shaped its course.