What is the Most Confederate State?

The term 'Confederate States' is often associated with historical memory and symbolism. While the Confederate States of America (CSA) ended in 1865, the legacy of its ideology and symbols persists in various states. This article explores which state is considered the most Confederate, based on historical and contemporary indicators.

Historical Context: South Carolina and the First Secession

South Carolina was the first state to secede from the Union on December 20, 1860. This act was followed by other states, leading to the formation of the Confederate States of America. South Carolina's decision was so significant that its legislature voted unanimously to secede. Between 1861 and 1865, South Carolina maintained its position as the most Confederate state among the seceding states. However, it's not the only state that can claim strong Confederate ties.

State Governments and Confederate Legacies

When it comes to state government data, the early years of the Civil War saw unanimous votes from the legislatures of several states. Between 1861 and 1865, the votes in favor of secession from the Union were as follows:

South Carolina: Unanimous vote North Carolina: Unanimous vote Arkansas: 69-1 vote Virginia: Uncertain, but early mentions suggest a strong Confederate leaning

These votes reflect a strong Confederate lean, but they do not fully capture the entire picture of each state's Confederate legacy.

Contemporary Indicators: Monuments and Membership

Contemporary signs of Confederate presence can be seen through various monuments. As of June 9, 2020 (though this information may be outdated), Virginia had the highest concentration of Confederate monuments, followed by Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. While these monuments do not quantify overall Confederate sentiment, they provide a tangible presence.

Additionally, membership in Confederate heritage organizations can also indicate continued Confederate influence. The Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) and the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) are two such organizations. As of 2019, the SCV claimed 30,000 members globally, organized into "camps," while the UDC claimed 19,000 members, organized into "chapters."

The highest number of SCV camps was found to be 2,253 as of the latest available data. While this suggests a robust presence, the actual geographical distribution and active membership might vary. The UDC does not have a similar map published, but it is likely that states with higher historical Confederate presence also have more active chapters.

Conclusion: A Complex Legacy

The concept of the "most Confederate state" is complex and multifaceted. While South Carolina's early secession and unanimous vote make it historically the top contender, the current presence of Confederate monuments and membership in heritage organizations can indicate continued influence. However, a complete assessment would require more detailed data, especially regarding the active membership and distribution of these organizations.

The legacy of the Confederate States of America is a topic of ongoing debate and reflection. These indicators provide a snapshot of history but do not capture the full narrative of each state's contributions and perspectives.